What are the types and warning signs of heat-related illnesses?
Heat Stroke is the most serious heat-related illness. The body is unable to control its temperature. Body temperature rises rapidly, and the body doesn’t sweat and can’t cool down. It can cause death or permanent disability if not treated promptly. Warning signs are: • An extremely high body temperature above 103F • Red, hot, dry skin, with no sweating • Rapid, strong pulse • Throbbing headache • Dizziness • Nausea Heat Exhaustion is a milder form of heat-related illness that can develop after several days of exposure to high temperatures and inadequate or unbalanced fluid intake. Warning signs are: • Heavy sweating • Paleness • Muscle cramps • Tiredness • Weakness • Dizziness • Headache • Nausea or vomiting • Fainting These groups are most at risk for heat-related illness or death: • The elderly • The very young • People with mental illness • People with chronic diseases The elderly are particularly susceptible to extreme heat. This is due to the following factors: • They do not adjus
