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HEAT
INDEX CHART
Apparent
Temperature |
Heat
Stress Risk with Physical Activity
and/or Prolonged Exposure |
90° - 105° |
Heat cramps or heat
exhaustion possible |
105° - 130° |
Heat cramps or heat
exhaustion likely Heatstroke possible |
130°+ |
Heatstroke highly likely
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SIGNS
OF HEAT-RELATED ILLNESS
1) HEAT CRAMPS
Causes: Loss of electrolytes and accumulation of lactic acid
in the muscles.
Conditions: Muscle cramps and/or spasms, heavy sweating, normal
body temperature.
Treatment: Drink water and sports drink, slow down, massage
affected area.
2)
HEAT EXHAUSTION
Causes: Intense exercise in a hot, humid condition and loss
of electrolytes.
Conditions: Profuse sweating, possible drop in blood pressure
(less than 90 systolic, the top number), normal or slightly
elevated body temperature, lightheadedness, nausea, vomiting,
decreased coordination, possible fainting.
Treatment: Rest in a cool place, drink water and sports drink,
if BP drops below 90 systolic, call EMS, avoid activity for
at least 24 hours, refrain from running or exercising in the
heat for at least one week.
3)
HEAT STROKE
This is a medical emergency!
Causes: Intense exercise in a hot, humid condition, older
age, dehydration, obesity, wearing heavy clothing, running
in the heat when you have an infection or fever, certain drugs
such as amphetamines, diuretics, beta blockers, cardiovascular
disease, poor acclimatization, high blood pressure.
Conditions: High body temperature (106 or higher), lack of
sweating characterized by dry, red skin, altered consciousness.
Treatment: Call EMS! Rest in a cool place, remove clothing
to expose skin to air, apply ice packs or cool water to groin,
underarms, neck (stop if shivering).
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