Group+4-+medical+consequences

Medical Consequences of Heat Stress

"Heat stress is a condition in which the body has elevated core temperature, which may be manifest by or lead to illness of varying severity. Consequences of inadequate heat dissipation range from general discomfort to heat stroke. Beyond the more subtle impairments to personal capacity that result from fatigue, heat illnesses may also cause extreme discomfort and even complete temporary disability. Heat stroke is potentially fatal and may occur suddenly if heat exhaustion is ignored." http://are.berkeley.edu/heat/physio.html

this website explains the dangers of heat and what it can do to you. below is a chart (from the same website) about different heat illnesses that can occur and what to do about it medically Regarded as least severe of heat illnesses, occurs when sweat clogs pores. Though heat rash usually causes only temporary discomfort, it can develop into an infection. || Cleanse the affected area thoroughly and dry completely. Calamine or other soothing lotion may help relieve the discomfort. || Most likely to affect people who are not acclimatized to working in hot environments. Syncope generally is the sudden loss of consciousness due to lack of sufficient blood and oxygen to the brain. Heat stress can cause it by "diverting" blood to the lower body or extremities at the expense of the brain. || Rest in shade, drink plenty of water (recommended) or electrolyte fluids. || Heat cramps are often extremely uncomfortable and can be completely disabling. They typically occur during or after hard work and are caused by electrolyte deficiencies that result from extended periods of intense sweating. Symptoms include painful spasms of leg, arm or abdominal muscles, heavy sweating, and thirst. || Rest, drink plenty of water or electrolyte fluids. || Heat exhaustion also occurs during work but results from dehydration, lack of acclimatization, reduction of blood in circulation, strain on circulatory system, and reduced flow of blood to the brain. Symptoms of heat exhaustion include fatigue, headache, dizziness, muscle weakness, nausea, chills, tingling of hands or feet, confusion, loss of coordination, fainting and collapse. || Rest in the shade or cool place. Drink plenty of water (preferred) or electrolyte fluids. || Heat Stroke can occur suddenly if heat exhaustion is not treated, and it can be fatal. At this extreme state of heat stress, the body typically has a core temperature exceeding 104 degrees F and can no longer cool itself. A person suffering heat stroke needs immediate attention and should be taken to a medical facility as soon as possible. || **A medical emergency!** Brain damage and death are possible. Douse the body continuously with a cool liquid and summon medical aid immediately. ||
 * **Heat Illness** || **First Aid** ||
 * **Heat rash**
 * **Heat syncope**
 * **Heat cramps**
 * **Heat exhaustion**
 * **Heat stroke**

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