Hyperthermia

Hyperthermia is a ‘heat induced illness.’ Heat stress can cause mild conditions such as a rash or cramps, however serious and life-threatening conditions, such as heat stroke can worsen pre-existing medical conditions.

Signs and symptoms

  • Muscle cramps

  • Fatigue

  • Headache

  • Nausea

  • Pale skin

  • Sweating

  • Thirst

  • Fainting

  • Dizziness

  • Elevated body temperature

  • Possible collapse and unconsciousness

First aid

  • Call the ambulance, move to a cooler area such as shade

  • Lie the casualty down, loosen and remove excessive clothing

  • Remove the cause and assist the normal cooling mechanisms

  • Cool and moisten skin with atomiser sprays, moist cloths, fans, fanning etc.

  • Apply wrapped ice packs to neck, groin and armpits

  • Give water to drink if fully conscious;

  • Resuscitate if required (ABCD

  • Monitor until help arrives

Meirav Dulberg