How to Assess the Three Stages of Heat Illness
Heat-related illnesses consist of three stages, ranging from relatively mild to life threatening: heat cramps, heat exhaustion and heatstroke, respectively. Recognize and treat symptoms as soon as possible, especially before earlier stages progress to heatstroke. These guidelines follow recommendations of the American Red Cross and the Center for Disease Control.
- Difficulty:
- Moderate
Instructions
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Heat Cramps
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1
Check for a cramping in the leg muscles or abdomen.
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2
Ask the person whether he or she is feeling tired, has a headache or feels nauseous or dizzy.
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3
Look for heavy perspiration.
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4
Continue to next section to assess for heat exhaustion. Otherwise, treat person for heat cramps (see "Treat Heat Cramps," under Related eHows).
Heat Exhaustion
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1
Look at the person's skin for a pale color and feel it for moistness.
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2
Check for a weak but elevated pulse.
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3
Watch for vomiting.
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4
Continue onto next section to assess for heat stroke. Otherwise, treat for heat exhaustion (see "Treat Heat Exhaustion," under Related eHows).
Heat Stroke
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1
Observe the person's behavior and temperament. If he or she appears disoriented or is acting out of character or exhibiting a strange personality, suspect heatstroke and treat immediately.
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2
Take the person's temperature. If over 104 degrees F, treat immediately for heatstroke.
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3
Look at and feel the person's skin: Is it hot and red? If so, suspect heatstroke and treat immediately.
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4
Check the person's heart and respiratory rate. If either is elevated, suspect heatstroke and treat immediately (see "Treat Heatstroke," under Related eHows).
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1
Tips & Warnings
Heatstroke is extremely serious. Seek medical attention right away while you attempt to cool the person down.
Heat illness occurs in high temperatures (95 degrees F or higher) and humidity and during sweat-inducing activities that are performed in the sun or during the hottest hours of the day. In such conditions, be on the lookout for the above three stages of heat illness.
If symptoms persist or if you have specific medical conditions or concerns, we recommend you contact a physician. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice or treatment.
