As everyone knows only too well, it’s hot in Houston in the summer, and we’re right in the middle of it. It’s miserable, but it can also be flat-out dangerous.
There are two levels of heat injury, heat exhaustion and heat stroke. The signs of heat exhaustion are:
- headache
- nausea
- rapid pulse
- weakness
- cramping
- dizziness
- profuse sweating
- cold, clammy skin
The proper response is to cool the “patient” (move to a cooler place, with water), move them to a cooler place (shade, air conditioning), have them lie down, and re-hydrate them.
Heat stroke is an entirely different situation. While it can also involve headache, nausea, and rapid pulse, it differs from heat exhaustion in the following ways:
- altered mental state (confusion, delirium, slurred speech, etc.)
- unconsciousness
- no sweating (dry, hot skin)
- very high body temperature (104˚F or more)
If you have a heat stroke situation, CALL 911 IMMEDIATELY! Heat stroke is a serious, life-threatening medical emergency. Cool the patient any way possible - with water, wet towels, ice packs, etc. - especially the head and neck areas. Move the patient into the shade. Remove excess clothing. Do not give fluids!
Heat stroke can cause severe organ damage and even death. For further information, and tips on avoiding heat-related illness, the Mayo Clinic has good information:
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/heat-stroke/symptoms-causes/syc-20353581