Heat Exhaustion and Heat Stroke

Symptoms of heat exhaustion (precursor to heatstroke)

• Heavy sweating

• Cold, pale and clammy skin

• Fast, weak pulse

• Nausea or vomiting

• Muscle cramps

• Tiredness or weakness

• Dizziness

• Headache

• Fainting (passing out)

Symptoms of heatstroke

• High body temperature (103°F or higher)

• Hot, red, dry, or damp skin

• Fast, strong pulse

• Headache

• Dizziness

• Nausea

• Confusion

• Losing consciousness (passing out)

When to get HELP. Do not wait. CALL 911

If you think a person may be experiencing heatstroke, seek immediate medical help. Call 911 or the local emergency services/Fire Department number.

Take immediate action to cool the overheated person while waiting for emergency treatment.

• Get the person into shade or indoors.
• Remove excess clothing.
• Cool the person with whatever means available — put in a cool tub of water or a cool shower, spray with a garden hose, sponge with cool water, fan while misting with cool water, or place ice packs or cold, wet towels on the person's head, neck, armpits and groin.

Author

Paddy Kalish OD, JD and B.Arch