Sunday, February, 12, 2012

Heat emergencies

Table of Contents

Alternative Names

Heatstroke


Prevention
  • Wear loose-fitting, lightweight clothing in hot weather.
  • Rest frequently and seek shade when possible.
  • Avoid exercise or strenuous physical activity outside during hot or humid weather.
  • Drink plenty of fluids every day. Drink more fluids before, during, and after physical activity.
  • Be especially careful to avoid overheating if you are taking drugs that impair heat regulation, or if you are overweight or elderly.
  • Be careful of hot cars in the summer. Allow the car to cool off before getting in.

References

Jardine DS. Heat illness and heat stroke. Pediatr Rev. 2007;28(7):249-258.

Dinarello CA, Porat R. Fever and hyperthermia. In: Fauci AS, Harrison TR, eds. Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine. 17th ed. New York, NY: McGraw Hill; 2008:chap 17.


Images


Review Date: 01/14/2010
Reviewed By: Jacob L. Heller, MD, MHA, Emergency Medicine, Virginia Mason Medical Center, Seattle, Washington. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org)