Summertime heat-related illnesses can be mild to life threatening. A less severe form can quickly progress to a more serious and dangerous heat-related condition. Below is a list starting with the least to most serious. Be aware that, with lung disease you should be even more careful.
The best treatment is prevention by staying cool, well hydrated and well rested. Take it especially easy in the summer heat!!
Heat Rash is skin irritation caused by sweating during hot, humid weather. It can be clusters of red pimples or small blisters, often on the neck, chest, groin, under the breasts, and in elbow creases. Keep affected areas dry, and cool, to give the rash time to heal.
Heat Cramps usually affect people who sweat profusely. Sweating depletes the body's sodium and fluid levels. Cramps usually occur in the abdomen, arms, and legs, and can also be a symptom of heat exhaustion. Rest, cool down, drink water, juice or a beverage containing electrolytes,
Heat Syncope is an episode of dizziness or fainting that occurs with prolonged standing or from sudden rising from a sitting or lying position when overheated. Dehydration can contribute. Fainting can also precede heat exhaustion. Rest, hydration and cooling down are very important.
Heat Exhaustion is the body's response to an excessive loss of water and sodium, usually through excessive sweating. Symptoms can include headache, nausea, dizziness, weakness, irritability, thirst, heavy sweating, elevated body temperature, and decreased urine output. You should be medically evaluated at a clinic or emergency department as soon as possible. Heat exhaustion is an emergency that can quickly escalate to life-threatening heat stroke.
Heat Stroke is the most serious problem because the body can no longer regulate its temperature. Body temperature rises rapidly and can’t cool down. Symptoms include confusion, loss of consciousness, seizures, very high body temperature, and hot, dry skin or profuse sweating. Many people think that sweating always stops when someone has heat stroke. This is not always true. Heat stroke can cause death or permanent disability. Seek emergency treatment.
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