TYLER, Texas — June 21 marks the first day of the summer. With that in mind, people should take note of the dangers heat can impose.
The three most common diagnoses people can receive if they are exposed to the sun for too long are heat strokes, heat exhaustion and heat cramps.
Read below to see how you can help out an individual suffering from a heat related illness.
Heat Stroke
Symptoms
- High body temperature (over 103°F)
- Hot, dry, or damp skin
- Fast pulse
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Nausea
- Loosing consciousness
What to do
If you believe someone is suffering from a heat stroke you should call 911 immediately and move the individual to a shaded area. This will help regulate their body temperature and allow them to return to homeostasis.
It is important for the person to not consume any liquids while waiting for medical officials to access their physical state.
Heat Exhaustion
Symptoms
- Heavy sweating
- Cold, pale and clammy skin
- Fast pulse
- Nausea
- Muscle cramps
- Dizziness
- Headache
- Fainting
What to do
If you believe an individual is suffering from heat exhaustion, you should move them to a cooler area and place wet cloths on their body to regulate their temperature.
Make sure the person takes gradual sips of water.
Get medical help immediately if
The individual is vomiting or the symptoms are not subsiding after one hour.
Heat Cramps
Symptoms
- Heavy sweating during exercise
- Muscle pain or spasms
What to do
If you believe an individual is suffering from heat cramps you should advise them to stop exercising and move to a shaded area. Make sure to drink plenty of liquids and even consider an electrolyte beverage.
Individuals should wait for the cramping to subside before returning to physical activity.
Get medical help immediately if
The individual's cramps last more than one hour in duration or if they have a history of heart problems.
If you ever find yourself in a life threatening situation you are advised to call 911.