Treatment for Heat Exhaustion and Heat Cramps
For heat exhaustion, first aid treatment includes moving the person to a cool environment, removing excess clothing, limiting exertion, and providing cool fluids if the person can swallow. 1
Heat Exhaustion Management
Heat exhaustion is a serious condition characterized by symptoms that develop suddenly or over time, including:
- Nausea, dizziness, muscle cramps, feeling faint, headache, fatigue, and heavy sweating 1
Immediate treatment steps:
- Move the victim to a cool place 1
- Remove as many clothes as possible 1
- Cool the victim with cool water spray 1
- Encourage drinking cool fluids, preferably containing carbohydrates and electrolytes 1
- For exertional dehydration, a 4% to 9% carbohydrate-electrolyte drink is preferable over water alone 1
Warning Signs and Monitoring
Heat exhaustion is a serious condition because it can rapidly progress to heat stroke, which can be fatal 1. Monitor for signs of:
- Altered mental status, confusion, or seizures, which indicate progression to heat stroke 1
- If these signs develop, activate emergency medical services immediately 1
Heat Cramps Management
Heat cramps are painful involuntary muscle spasms that most often affect the calves, arms, abdominal muscles, and back 1. Treatment includes:
- Rest and cooling off 1
- Drinking an electrolyte-carbohydrate mixture (juice, milk, or commercial sports drinks) 1
- Stretching, icing, and massaging the painful muscles 1
- Exercise should not be resumed until all symptoms have resolved 1
Special Considerations
For Children and Adolescents
- Children experiencing exertional heat illness should not return to activity for the remainder of the current session 1
- For children with signs of severe heat stress, prompt rapid cooling for 10-15 minutes should be initiated 1
- If alert enough to ingest fluid, hydration should be provided while awaiting medical assistance 1
For Athletes and Active Individuals
- Risk factors include being unacclimatized, unfit, hypohydrated, and having a fast finishing pace 2
- Early warning signs include flushed face, hyperventilation, headache, dizziness, nausea, tingling arms, and confusion 2
Prevention Strategies
- Adjust exercise to environmental conditions - slow down when temperature exceeds 70°F 1
- Drink adequate fluids before, during, and after exercise 1
- Wait at least 2 hours after eating before vigorous exercise 1
- Wear loose-fitting, comfortable clothes made of porous material 1
- Acclimatization to heat is gradual and may require 12-14 days 1
- Monitor for early warning signs of heat illness 2
When to Seek Emergency Care
- For heat stroke (heat illness with altered mental status), activate emergency services immediately 1
- If the person collapses or exhibits moderate to severe central nervous system dysfunction 1
- If symptoms worsen despite first aid measures 1
Heat-related illnesses are preventable with proper awareness, hydration, and monitoring. The key to successful management is early recognition and prompt treatment.