Heat Exhaustion

Heat exhaustion is a milder form of heat-related illness that can develop after several days of exposure to high temperatures and inadequate or unbalanced replacement of fluids. Those most prone to heat exhaustion are elderly people, people with high blood pressure, and people working or exercising in a hot environment.

Symptoms: Warning signs of heat exhaustion include:

• heavy sweating, paleness, muscle cramps, tiredness
• weakness, dizziness, headache, nausea or vomiting, fainting
• The skin may be cool and moist. The victim's pulse rate will be fast and weak, and breathing will be fast and shallow. If heat exhaustion is untreated, it may progress to heat stroke. Seek medical attention immediately if:
• Symptoms are severe, or the victim has heart problems or high blood pressure.
• Otherwise, help the victim to cool off, and seek medical attention if symptoms worsen or last longer than 1 hour. Cooling measures that may be effective include:
• cool, non-alcoholic beverages, as directed by your physician
• rest
• cool shower, bath, or sponge bath
• an air-conditioned environment
• Lightweight clothing

Heat Stroke

Symptoms = of heat stroke can sometimes mimic those of heart attack or other conditions. Sometimes a person experiences symptoms of heart exhaustion before progressing to heart strokes. Symptoms of heat exhaustion may include nausea, vomiting, fatigue, weakness, headache, muscle cramps and aches, and dizziness. However some individuals can develop symptoms of heat stroke suddenly and rapidly without warning. Different people may have different symptoms and signs of heat stroke. But common symptoms and signs of heart stroke include:

• high body temperature, rapid pulse , difficulty breathing, strange behavior
• hallucinations, confusion, agitation, disorientation, seizure, coma
• the absence of sweating, with hot red or flushed dry skin

Prevention = The most important measures to prevent heat strokes are to avoid becoming dehydrated, and to avoid vigorous physical activities in hot and humid weather. If you have to perform physical activities in hot weather, drink plenty of fluids (such as water and Gatorade), but avoid alcohol, coffee, and tea which may lead to dehydration. Take frequent breaks to hydrate yourself. Wear hats, and light colored, and light and loose clothes. In general, the following signs are suggestive of dehydration; increasing thirst, dry mouth, weakness or lightheadedness (particularly if worsening on standing), darkening of the urine, or a decrease in urination. Another item to be aware of is diarrhea, which can very easily lead to dehydration. Constipation is also a sign that your body may not be getting enough water. On the island – coconut milk may lead to diarrhea and Bananas can lead to constipation.. Both are great – just watch yourself and be aware of the potential problems.