Warning Signs and Symptoms of Heat-related Illness
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- Muscle pains or spasms that occur usually in the legs, arms, or abdomen.
- They may occur during strenuous activity and can be a prelude to heat exhaustion.
- Heavy sweating
- Muscle cramps
- Nausea or vomiting
- Body temperature above 103°F
- Red, hot, and dry skin with no sweating
- Rapid, strong pulse
- Throbbing headache
- Air conditioning is the number one protective factor! Stay in an air-conditioned place. If your home isn’t air-conditioned, visit the mall, public library, or contact your local health department to see if there are any heat-relief shelters in your area.
- Increase fluid intake to two to four cups (16-32 ounces) of cool fluids every hour. If you’re on water pills or restricted fluid limit, consult your physician first.
- Avoid liquids that contain alcohol or large amounts of sugar, which cause you to lose body fluid. Very cold drinks can cause stomach cramps and should be avoided as well.
- Wear lightweight, light-colored, loose-fitting clothing and sunscreen with a SPF 15 or higher and broad spectrum or UVA/UVB protection.
- NEVER leave anyone, especially children and elderly, in a closed, parked vehicle, even if the windows are cracked.
- Check on at-risk populations at least twice a day and closely monitor them for any warning signs. At-risk populations include:
- Infants and children
- People over 65 years of age
- People with a mental illness
- People who are physically ill, especially with heart disease or high blood pressure
First Aid for Heat Illness
- Seek medical attention immediately for extreme heat illness.
- Take a cool shower or bath to lower body temperature.
- Drink cool liquids that do not contain sugar or alcohol.
- Get to an air conditioned environment or shady area and rest.
Injury Prevention Service, OSDH, 1000 NE 10th Street, Oklahoma City, OK 73117
Revised May 2012
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