A heat emergency occurs when the heat-regulating mechanism in the body is not working correctly. The results of this malfunctioning can include high fever, collapse, convulsions, coma, and even death. A heat emergency generally occurs when the body is exposed to very high temperatures, generally exceeding 35- 40 degrees C (95-105 degrees F)
What are the signs and symptoms of the injury?
Symptoms can vary depending upon whether the condition is mild or severe. Early symptoms include:
- extreme sweating
- increased thirst
- nausea
- muscle cramps
- fatigue and weakness
- light headedness and dizziness
Most of these symptoms are actually those of dehydration brought on by exposure to heat with inadequate fluid intake. This condition is termed “heat exhaustion”.
