Heat illness

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Heat Illness

Heat illness (pronunciation: /hiːt ˈɪlnəs/) refers to a spectrum of disorders due to environmental exposure to heat. It includes minor conditions such as heat rash and heat cramps, to more severe conditions like heat exhaustion and heat stroke.

Etymology

The term "heat illness" is derived from the English words "heat" meaning high temperature and "illness" meaning a disease or period of sickness.

Types of Heat Illness

  • Heat Rash - Also known as prickly heat, it is a skin irritation caused by excessive sweating during hot, humid weather.
  • Heat Cramps - These are muscle spasms that result from loss of large amount of salt and water through exercise.
  • Heat Exhaustion - A severe form of heat illness, it manifests as fatigue, nausea, vomiting, and dizziness.
  • Heat Stroke - The most severe form of heat illness, it is a life-threatening emergency and can cause death or permanent disability if emergency treatment is not provided.

Symptoms

Symptoms of heat illness can range from mild, such as skin irritation and muscle cramps, to severe, such as confusion, vomiting, and loss of consciousness. The severity of the symptoms often depends on the type of heat illness.

Prevention

Prevention of heat illness involves avoiding excessive heat and humidity when possible, staying hydrated, and taking breaks to cool down when performing physical activities in hot conditions.

Treatment

Treatment for heat illness typically involves moving the individual to a cooler environment, rehydrating with water or a sports drink, and in severe cases, seeking immediate medical attention.

Related Terms

External links

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