When All Hell Breaks Loose (18 page)

Hideous Hyperthermia: The Signs and Symptoms

There are three levels of environmental heat illness recognized by the medical profession. Listed in order of severity, from bad to worse, they are
heat cramps, heat exhaustion
, and
heatstroke
. There are two types of heatstroke,
classical heatstroke
and
exertional heatstroke
. Classical heatstroke generally occurs in out-of-shape, sedentary older folks who decide to weed the garden or mow the lawn at noon in July. Exertional heatstroke happens after intense physical activity in a hot environment, especially during periods of high humidity, which prevent the cooling power of evaporation. During this type of heatstroke, despite earlier beliefs, the victim may still be sweating heavily, as the sweat glands are usually still active at the time of collapse. Heatstroke is extremely serious and can be avoided by
paying attention
to the signs and symptoms of heat cramps and heat exhaustion.

Signs and Symptoms of Heat Cramps

Core temperature 99–100 degrees F (37.3–37.8 degrees C)

Thirst

Irritability

Profuse sweating

Headache

Dizziness

Nausea, vomiting

Decreased appetite

Generalized weakness

Spasms of the voluntary muscles and abdomen after exercise and exertion in a hot environment

Signs and Symptoms of Heat Exhaustion

Core temperature 101–102 degrees F (38.4–38.9 degrees C)

Excessive thirst

Profuse sweating

Headache

Dizziness

Nausea, vomiting

Generalized weakness

Decreased appetite

Disorientation

Confusion

Cramps

Weak, rapid pulse with shallow, rapid breathing

Cool, pale, moist skin

Decreased awareness or unconsciousness