Describe the symptoms and treatment of heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heatstroke.

Question

Fill in the blank(s) with the appropriate word(s).

Answer 1

1. Heat cramps. Symptoms include cramps and spasms and muscle twitching in the legs, arms, and abdomen. To relieve heat cramps, stop exercising, get out of the heat, stretch slowly, massage the painful area, and drink plenty of fluids (water, fruit drinks, or electrolyte beverages).2. Heat exhaustion. Symptoms include fainting; dizziness; profuse sweating; cold, clammy skin; weakness; headache; and a rapid, weak pulse. If you develop any of these symptoms, stop and find a cool place to rest. Drink cool water only if conscious. Loosen or remove clothing, and rub your body with a cool/wet towel or ice packs. Place yourself in a supine position with legs elevated 8 to 12 inches. If you are not fully recovered in 30 minutes, seek immediate medical attention.3. Heatstroke. Symptoms include serious disorientation; warm, dry skin; no sweating; rapid, full pulse; vomiting; diarrhea; unconsciousness; and high body temperature. As the body temperature climbs, unexplained anxiety can arise. When the body temperature reaches 104 to 105 degrees Fahrenheit, one might feel a cold sensation in the trunk of the body, goosebumps, nausea, throbbing in the temples, and numbness in the extremities. Most people become incoherent after this stage. When body temperature reaches 105 to 106 degrees, disorientation, loss of fine motor control, and muscular weakness occur. If the temperature exceeds 106, serious neurological injury and death can be imminent. Heatstroke requires immediate emergency medical attention.