EXTREME HEAT [HYPERTHERMIA]

Extreme heat Hyperthermia is defined as an unusually high body temperature, often known as overheating– the opposite of hypothermia, which occurs when your body becomes extremely cold. When your body absorbs or produces more heat than it can dissipate, you have hyperthermia. The body’s average temperature is 98.6 degrees Fahrenheit. Any body temperature exceeding 99 or 100 degrees Fahrenheit is considered very warm.

Hyperthermia is usually caused by overexertion in hot, humid conditions. Most forms of hyperthermia may be avoided.

TYPES

Hyperthermia refers to a variety of heat-related disorders, including:

  • Heatstroke
  • Heat stress
  • Heat rash
  • Heat exhaustion
  • Heat cramps

SYMPTOMS

Heat cramps are characterized by abrupt muscular spasms in the feet, calves, thighs, hands, and arms. Cramping may be unpleasant or tight. After the cramp has passed, your muscles may feel painful.

Heat exhaustion symptoms include:

  • Fast breathing or heart rate
  • Fatigue
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Blurred vision
  • Dizziness
  • Low blood pressure
  • Muscle aches or cramps
  • Weakness
  • Headache
  • Fainting

Heatstroke symptoms are frequently similar to those of heat exhaustion; however, they may additionally include:

  • Hot, flushed, or extremely pale skin
  • Seizures
  • Delirium (confusion or disorientation)
  • High or low blood pressure
  • Balance problems
  • Anhidrosis

People suffering from heatstroke may endure shock, unconsciousness, organ failure, or death. Get medical help immediately if you show signs of heat stroke.

DIAGNOSIS

Extreme heat [Hyperthermia] is diagnosed by assessing your symptoms, making a physical exam, and testing your temperature. They could also request blood or urine testing.

TREATMENT

If you have mild to severe symptoms of heat sickness, you should:

  • Stop all physical activity and relax in a place that is cool and well-ventilated.
  • Remove any restrictive garments.
  • Replace lost electrolytes by consuming mildly salty liquids. Avoid drinking caffeinated drinks.
  • Apply a cold compress to the affected area.
  • Keep inflamed skin dry. Utilize a powder or ointment to alleviate the pain caused by a rash.
  • Relax any cramping muscles with gentle stretching.

If you suspect a severe case of Extreme heat Hyperthermia or heatstroke, you should do the following to keep the victim as chilly as possible while you wait for an ambulance:

  • If possible, immerse them in cold water.
  • Ice packs should be used to relieve pain in the groin, armpits, and neck.
  • Mist their bodies with water and blow air over them (evaporative cooling).
  • Any drugs, including aspirin and acetaminophen, should be avoided.

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