Guide To Heat-Related Illnesses

There are several heat-related illnesses out there, and they vary in symptoms and severity. Some heat-related illnesses require immediate emergency medical attention, while others will resolve on their own with rest and hydration. Heat illnesses encompass any illness that occurs because the body overheats. Individuals are most likely to develop a heat-related illness when they are out in hot and humid conditions, especially if they're dehydrated or overexerting themselves. Many athletes experience some form of heat illness in the summer. The best way to avoid heat-related illnesses is by staying inside when it's dangerously hot, staying hydrated, and not working too hard in hot conditions. It's also helpful for individuals to know the symptoms of different conditions, so they are able to know if or when they need emergency medical care.

Heat Rash

A heat rash is a commonly-occurring condition that causes patches of skin to sting or prickle because they've become overheated. This condition isn't dangerous, but it can cause uncomfortable itching. Heat rashes look like small, raised bumps surrounded by reddened skin, and in most cases, the rash will develop on clothed portions of the individual's body like the armpits, groin, upper chest, back, neck, and abdomen. Rather than persisting for long periods, the rash will typically subside when the individual's skin becomes cooler. Most individuals experience this condition after being in humid, hot conditions. Infants most commonly develop it, though anyone can. There's also a higher chance of developing a heat rash for individuals who have a fever and are on bed rest, or for those who live a very active lifestyle.

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Heat Syncope

Heat syncope, otherwise known as heat fainting, is a heat illness that typically occurs when individuals overexert themselves in a hot climate. Though the symptoms may appear and feel alarming, this form of heat-related illness isn't generally dangerous. However, if it's paired with more dangerous symptoms, affected individuals should seek medical care. When an individual's body tries to cool itself down, it causes their blood vessels to dilate. Heat syncope occurs when an individual's blood pressure drops so much that there's reduced blood flow to their brain. Individuals are much more likely to develop heat syncope if they haven't been drinking enough water. Individuals experiencing heat syncope might feel faint, dizzy, restless, have a rapid heartbeat, feel pounding in their head, feel nauseous, vomit, or briefly lose consciousness. Those who experience any of these things should lie down in a cool area and drink salty fluids.

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