Heat Disorders - Symptoms

Symptoms for the different types of hyperthermia vary. The longer one is exposed to heat, the more serious the symptoms of hyperthermia become.

Heat Cramps

At relatively warm temperatures, the body begins to perspire. Perspiration results in the loss of water. The body slowly becomes dehydrated. Dehydration leads to heat cramps.

As heat cramps develop, muscle tissue becomes less flexible. It becomes more difficult and more painful to move. Muscles in the legs are most frequently affected. A person may find it difficult to walk or maintain his or her balance. Young children, the elderly, and people with circulation problems are more likely to be affected by heat cramps.

Heat Exhaustion

After hours in a hot environment, perspiration increases and body temperature rises. The skin may appear cool, moist, and pale. Other symptoms of heat exhaustion include headache, nausea, exhaustion, and a general sense of weakness. Before long, dizziness, faintness, and mental confusion develop.

Heat exhaustion is a common problem among athletes, firefighters, construction and factory workers, and anyone who wears heavy clothing in hot weather. (©

Richard Hutchings

. Reproduced by permission of

Photo Researchers, Inc.

)

Breathing becomes rapid and shallow. The urine of a person with heat exhaustion is likely to be dark yellow or orange.

Heat Stroke

Under the most extreme conditions, the body's temperature regulation system may begin to fail. The brain is no longer able to send messages to the rest of the body telling it how to cool off. Heat stroke may occur after the body temperature has reached 104°F (40°C). At this point, the patient may become mentally confused and aggressive. He or she may begin to stagger and feel faint.

During heat stroke, a patient's pulse rate may reach 160 to 180 beats per minute. The skin appears to be dry and flushed. There is very little perspiration. At this point, the patient needs immediate medical attention. Without care, he or she may die in a matter of hours.