(CIH) Heat Stress
Heat Syncope
is a fainting (syncope) episode or dizziness that usually occurs with prolonged standing or sudden rising from a sitting or lying position. Factors that may contribute to heat syncope include dehydration and lack of acclimatization. Symptoms: -Fainting (short duration) -Dizziness -Light-headedness during prolonged standing or suddenly rising from a sitting or lying position
Heat Rash
is a skin irritation caused by excessive sweating during hot, humid weather. Symptoms: -Looks like red cluster of pimples or small blisters -Usually appears on the neck, upper chest, groin, under the breasts, and in elbow creases
Heat Exhaustion
is the body's response to an excessive loss of the water and salt, usually through excessive sweating. Workers most prone to heat exhaustion are those that are elderly, have high blood pressure, and those working in a hot environment. Symptoms: -Headache -Nausea -Dizziness -Weakness -Irritability -Thirst -Heavy sweating -Elevated body temperature -Decreased urine output
Rhabdomyolysis
medical condition associated with heat stress and prolonged physical exertion, resulting in the rapid breakdown, rupture, and death of muscle. When muscle tissue dies, electrolytes and large proteins are released into the bloodstream that can cause irregular heart rhythms and seizures, and damage the kidneys. Symptoms: -Muscle cramps/pain -Abnormally dark (tea or cola colored) urine -Weakness -Exercise intolerance -Asymptomatic
Heat Stroke
most serious heat-related illness. It occurs when the body becomes unable to control its temperature: the body's temperature rises rapidly, the sweating mechanism fails, and the body is unable to cool down. When heat stroke occurs, the body temperature can rise to 106°F or higher within 10 to 15 minutes. Heat stroke can cause death or permanent disability if emergency treatment is not given. Symptoms: -Confusion, altered mental status, slurred speech -Loss of consciousness (coma) -Hot, dry skin or profuse sweating -Seizures -Very high body temperature -Fatal if treatment delayed
Heat Cramps
usually affect workers who sweat a lot during strenuous activity. This sweating depletes the body's salt and moisture levels. Low salt levels in muscles causes painful cramps. Heat cramps may also be a symptom of heat exhaustion. Symptoms: -Muscle cramps, pain, or spasms in the abdomen, arms, or legs