HEAT STRESS
Programs

Hot weather triggers a variety of medical emergencies. Even healthy people should take it easy

during extremely high temperatures, and those with respiratory and other health problems must

be especially careful. Stay out of the sun as much as possible. Drink extra fluids, but avoid

alcoholic beverages. Alcohol can cause dehydration.

The best ways to prevent a sun stress emergency are:

! Drink before you're thirsty and drink often.

! Eat a healthy diet.

! Wear a hat or cap, keep the neck covered and wear loose fitting clothing.

! If you can, work in the cool hours of the day or evening.

The greatest amount of heat loss from the body occurs at the head. This is why it is important to

wear a hat or cap in the sun.

The University of Minnesota, Facilities Management does not recommend the use of table salt or

salt tablets to replace body electrolytes. Many electrolyte replacement drinks are available on the

market. Electrolytes are crucial for the proper functioning of the body. Common electrolytes are:

! Calcium

! Sodium

! Potassium

Heat-related injuries fall into three major categories:

! Heat cramps

! Heat exhaustion

! Heatstroke

Heat cramps are muscular pains and spasms that occur when the body loses electrolytes during

profuse sweating or when inadequate electrolytes are taken into the body. They usually begin in

the arms, legs or abdomen, and often precede heat exhaustion. Treatment for heat cramps is to

rest in the shade, get near a fan, spray the person with water and massage the cramp.

Heat exhaustion is a medical emergency. When a person is suffering from heat exhaustion, they

will perspire profusely and most likely will be pale. It is best treated by taking the patient to a

cool place, applying cool compresses, elevating the feet and giving the patient fluids.

Heat stroke is the worst heat-related injury. The brain has lost its ability to regulate body

temperature. The patient will be hot, reddish and warm to the touch. Their temperature will be

markedly high and there will be no perspiration. This is a medical emergency, call 9-1-1. The

emergency care of heatstroke is to cool the body as quickly as possible. One of the best methods

for cooling the body during a heat emergency is to wrap the patient in cool, wet sheets.

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