17.5.1.2 What are heat related illnesses?
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This article is from the Aerobics Fitness FAQ, by oaktree@shell.urjet.net (Robles) with numerous contributions by others.
17.5.1.2 What are heat related illnesses?
Heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke are conditions caused
by overexposure to heat. Heat cramps are the least severe, and
often are the first signals that the body is having trouble with the
heat. Heat cramps are painful muscle spasms. The usually occur in
the legs and abdomen. Think of them as a warning of a possible heat-
related emergency.
HEAT EXHAUSTION is a more severe condition than heat cramps. It
often affects athletes, fire fighters, construction workers, and
factory workers, as well as those who wear heavy clothing in hot,
humid environments. Its signals include cool, moist, pale or flushed
skin, headache, nausea, dizziness, weakness, and exhaustion.
HEAT STROKE is the least common but most severe heat emergency. It
most often occurs when people ignore the signals of heat exhaustion.
HEAT STROKE develops when the body systems are overwhelmed by heat
and begin to stop functioning. HEAT STROKE is a SERIOUS medical
emergency. The signals of heat stroke include red, hot, dry skin;
changes in consciousness; rapid, weak pulse; and rapid, shallow
breathing.
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