Heat Ilness

Heat Illness	CAUSES	CLINICAL FEATURES & DIAGNOSIS	TREATMENT	PREVENTION
HEAT CRAMP	Hard work in heat; sweating heavily; imbalance between water & electrolytes	Muscle twitching & cramps, usually after midday; spasms in arms, legs, abdomen	Ingesting large amount of water, mild stretching, & ice massage of affected muscle	Acclimatize athlete properly; provide large quantities of water; increase intake of calcium, sodium, & potassium slightly
HEAT EXHAUST	Prolonged sweating; inadequate replacement of body fluid losses; diarrhea; intestinal infection	Excessive thirst, dry tongue & mouth; weight loss; fatigue; weakness; in-coordination; mental dullness; small urine volume; slightly elevated body temperature; high serum protein & sodium; reduced swelling	Bed rest in cool room, increase fluid intake to 6-8L/day; sponge with cool water; keep record of body weight; keep fluid balance record; provide semiliquid food until salination is normal	Supply adequate water and other liquids; provide adequate rest & opportunity for cooling
HEAT STROKE	Thermo-regulatory failure of sudden onset	Abrupt onset, preceded by headache, vertigo, & fatigue; flushed skin; relatively less sweating that seen with heat exhaustion; pulse rate increases rapidly & may reach 160-180; respiration increases; BP seldom rises; temperature rises rapidly to 105 or 106oF (40-41oC); athlete feels as if he or she is burning up; diarrhea, vomiting	Emergency measures to reduce temperature must be taken immediately (e.g. emersion in ice water bath or sponge cool water & air fan over body, massage limbs); remove to hospital	• Ensure proper acclimatization, proper hydration • Educate those supervising activities conducted in the heat • Adapt activities to environment

By Azmil B Mustapha an assignment for 'Sports Injury'