Excessive temperatures, dehydration responsible for heat-related injuries

  • Published
  • By Courtesy of 16th MDG
HURLBURT FIELD, Fla. --  Heat related injuries range on a spectrum from the mildest form known as heat cramps, to the more significant, heat exhaustion, and finally the most severe form, heat stroke.
Heat cramps are usually the result of a net loss of salt in the body with a normal basal body temperature.

This is considered a heat related illness because the lost salt is a result of sweating, without replacing the salt lost through the sweat. The lack of salt can result in muscle spasms, which usually occur in the arms.

Treatment is targeted at stopping the process before it can progress and includes resting in a cool location with something to drink, preferably something with salt replacement such as a sports drink.

Left untreated, it can progress to the more serious condition of heat exhaustion.

Heat exhaustion is the result of volume depletion, or lack of fluids. Symptoms may include abdominal or limb cramping, paleness, feeling faint, nausea, vomiting, profuse sweating or cool moist skin, weak pulse and also a normal body temperature.

Treatment involves treating for shock. If the patient is conscious, they should be given something cool to drink and medical attention; if they are not conscious, they need immediate life-saving medical attention.

Finally, heat stroke is when the patient's condition has progressed to a point where the natural cooling system is defeated and the core body temperature has risen.

These patients may experience headache, dizziness, lightheadedness, red, hot dry skin and a strong rapid pulse. They will feel hot and dry to touch.

Frequently these individuals will have an altered state of consciousness or loss of consciousness.

These individuals require immediate medical attention.

Treat patients for shock. Attempt to cool them by sprinkling with water and fanning, but not to the point of shivering, as this could increase the body temperature.

If conscious, have them sip cool water. If available, add 1-2 teaspoons of salt to a quart of water - sugar if wanted to aid taste. This patient is at significant risk of dying, if untreated.

Watch for work rest cycles prescribed by base officials. Ensure troops have adequate water and breaks when working in hot environments.

The best way to know if you are drinking enough fluids is to watch your urine.

When well hydrated, urine should be clear to mildly yellow. If darker, drink more fluids.

Finally, be a wingman. Watch for evidence of heat-related injuries and act accordingly.

The Marines put it simply: "Drink water - live; don't drink water - die."