How to recognize signs of heat stress and heat stroke
Temperatures above 100 degrees are expected in Albuquerque this week.
The KOAT 7 Weather Team is here to explain the different types of illnesses related to heat as temperatures begin to rise.
Extreme Heat and Heat Stress
During the start of the monsoon season, New Mexico awaits the deep moisture to flow in. While the moisture hasn’t arrived, hot temperatures often develop across the state. Sometimes, even though monsoon season has arrived, dry spells during the season also lead to hot temperatures.
These hot temperatures can cause heat stress, heat stroke and other health issues.
Heat Cramps
Spending time outdoors can be dangerous for long periods of time in the heat.
One issue many deal with are heat cramps. Heat cramps are when painful spasms occur in leg muscles and sometimes the abdominal muscles. Heat cramps can also be accompanied by heavy sweating.
How to treat heat cramps
- Apply pressure on cramping muscles or use a gentle massage technique to relieve the spasm.
- Drink small sips of water. Should nausea occur, stop drinking water.
Heat Exhaustion
Heat exhaustion can happen to anyone working or enjoying time outside.
Symptoms of heat exhaustion include heavy sweating, weakness, cold, pale and clammy skin. Fainting and vomiting are also symptoms of heat exhaustion.
To treat heat exhaustion you must:
- Get the patient out of the sun
- Loosen clothing and lay the patient down
- Apply cool, wet cloths to the patient
- Fan or move the patient to a room with air conditioning
- Take sips of water and if nausea occurs, stop drinking water. If vomiting, seek immediate medical attention.
Heat Stroke
Heat stroke is a very serious condition that develops when outside for long periods of time in extreme heat. Heat stroke is a very serious medical emergency and anyone experiencing signs of heat stroke should be taken to the hospital as it could turn into a life-threatening situation.
Identifying heat stroke
- Symptoms of heat stroke include a high body temperature
- Hot and dry skin
- Rapid and strong pulse
- Loss of consciousness
Treating heat stroke
- Dial 911 to call for emergency services
- Move the patient to a cooler environment
- Work to reduce body temperature with a cool bath or sponging
- Remove clothing, use fans and air conditioners to help cool the patient
- Do not give the patient fluids
Tips to stay safe in the heat
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