Prevention of Heat Stroke and Other Heat-related Illnesses

Heat Stroke

Heat stroke is the most severe form of heat illness and is a life-threatening emergency. It is the result of long, extreme exposure to the heat or humidity, in which a person does not sweat enough to lower body temperature.

Personnel working outdoors and those on certain types of medications are most susceptible to heat stroke and other heat-related illnesses. It is a condition that develops rapidly and requires immediate medical attention.

What are the symptoms of heat stroke?

Symptoms may include:

a. Headache

b. Dizziness

c. Disorientation, agitation or confusion

d. Sluggishness or fatigue

e. Seizure

f. Hot, dry skin that is flushed but not sweaty

g. High body temperature

h. Loss of consciousness

i. Rapid heart beat

j. Hallucinations

k. Hyperventilating

Prevention is still the BEST thing to do

Precautions include:

a. Hydration. Drink plenty of fluids during outdoor activities, especially on hot days. Water and sports drinks are the drinks of choice; avoid tea, coffee, soda and alcohol. It is advisable to keep a bottle of water handy especially when working outside the office.

b. Ventilation. Staying in a place where there is plenty of airspace which will help allow your body to naturally cool itself.

c. Clothing. Light colored, loose fitting clothing will aid your body in breathing and cooling itself down naturally. Tight clothing restricts such a process and dark colors absorb the sun’s light and heat.

d. Limit strenuous outdoor activity. Stay out of the sun, if possible.

Heat related illnesses are preventable. Like many sicknesses, it's easier to take steps against heat stroke than it is to treat it. Most doctors recommend consuming eight or more glasses of water a day during normal weather conditions and twice that during high temperature periods, especially when working outdoors.