How to Treat heat illnesses and heat rash
Although people of any age can get heat rash, the condition is more common among young children. Symptoms include itchy, stinging or prickly skin. Too much heat and sun can cause other heat-related illnesses as well, some of which can be serious or even life threatening. If you follow these steps you will be able to recognize and treat the signs of heat-related illnesses at early onset.
Other People Are Reading
Things You'll Need
- Moisturizing lotion
- Hydrocortisone cream
- Calamine lotion
- Cold compress
- Sports beverages
Instructions
-
-
1
The best way to treat heat rash is to stay cool and keep the skin dry. Move to an air-conditioned room or take a cool shower or bath. Let the skin air dry and then apply calamine lotion or an over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream to relieve the itching.
-
2
Apply a cold compress or moisturizing lotion to minor cases of sunburn. You can also get relief by immersing the sunburned area in cool water. More severe or blistered sunburn may require medical attention.
-
-
3
Avoid strenuous activity and exercise during the hottest periods of the day. While sweating is the body’s mechanism to cool down, if you sweat profusely, the body loses salt, and cramping in the arms and legs may occur. Rest and rehydrate with water, diluted fruit juices or sports beverages to restore the body’s electrolyte balance. You can also snack on salty nuts or crackers.
-
4
If you begin to feel ill after being out in the hot sun too long, you may be suffering from heat exhaustion. Immediately move into the shade or into an air-conditioned room. Loosen your clothing and sponge your skin with cool water. Drink fluids and rest.
-
5
Heat stroke is a medical emergency. Call 911 at once. Take steps to quickly lower the body temperature by blowing cool air on the person, and spraying him or her with cool water or wrapping loosely in wet towels or sheets.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
While symptoms of heat exhaustion include profuse sweating and cool, clammy skin, in cases of heat stroke the person actually stops sweating and the skin is hot and dry to the touch.
During periods of extreme heat and humidity, it is essential to keep well hydrated. Drink one 8-ounce glass of water every half hour. Do not wait until you feel thirsty to drink.
Individuals more at risk for heat-related illnesses include those who are severely dehydrated, suffer chronic illness, are dieting, taking certain medications or are in poor physical condition.
