HEAT EXHAUSTION SHOCK

 

Any individual being exposed to extremely high temperatures are in danger of heat exhaustion shock. Everyone is at risk whether they are at a beach or on a golf course if it is a sunny day with high temperatures and the humidity is also especially high. These are not the only individuals that are at risk. Anyone employed in an industry that exposes him or her to high temperatures, such as steelworkers, roofers, or any outdoor worker is at risk. Athletes, both professional and even the amateur can also be placed in this category. It also depends on the amount of exertion the person is putting into their sport or job, and on how much they are perspiring that determines the loss of body fluids. The body’s heat regulating mechanisms are unable to cope with this sudden increase of heat and the loss of body fluids that will cause severe dehydration and there will be a progression of symptoms that follows.  Heat exhaustion shock can be due to the loss of these fluids and the needed minerals contained in these fluids. When this occurs the individual usually becomes very fatigued and this can be the first sign that something is wrong. Following this feeling of fatigue and weakness, the individual will start to sweat profusely and they will start to have a feeling of anxiety. The slowing down of the circulation, leading to a slow thready pulse, usually follows this. The blood pressure starts to drop to dangerously low levels that are so low that it may be difficult to percept. The individual’s skin will be become clammy and cold, and their temperature will drop to below normal. As this progression of symptoms occurs the individual will slip into a state of unconsciousness.

 

It is extremely important to have a correct diagnosis to determine if the individual is actually in heat exhaustion shock as this can also mimic other conditions, such as a trauma that may have caused an internal hemorrhage, some form of poisoning, or insulin shock if the individual is diabetic. If at all possible ask these questions, if the patient is responsive.  A response to this emergency requires immediate attention to prevent a complete collapse of the circulatory system depriving the brain of its blood supply and the possible shutdown of the other body organs. It is always wise to call 911 when anyone is found in this situation. However, before rescue arrives there are steps that can be taken to help the stricken individual. The first thing to do is take the patient into a shady area, or away from the source of heat if at their place of employment. Place the patient in a flat position. If that is not possible have them place their head down. Start giving the patient small amounts at a time of cool not cold fluids. Try to add some salt to these fluids. Sports fluids, such as Gatorade would be ideal as they contain the necessary salts and minerals. Have the patient sip the fluid every few minutes. When the EMT arrives, they will of course take over and attend to the patient. However, you can be relieved and happy that you may have saved this persons life, or from having future health problems due this incident.