Why is This Important?

Heat exhaustion and heat stroke occur when the body overheats due to prolonged exposure to high temperatures, dehydration, and excessive physical activity. If untreated, heat exhaustion can progress to heat stroke, a life-threatening emergency requiring immediate medical attention.

Signs & Symptoms

🔹 Heat Exhaustion (Mild to Moderate - Needs Immediate Cooling)
✔ Heavy sweating
✔ Weakness or fatigue
✔ Dizziness or fainting
✔ Nausea or vomiting
✔ Headache
✔ Muscle cramps
✔ Cool, pale, clammy skin
✔ Fast but weak pulse

🚨 Heat Stroke (Severe - Medical Emergency)
🚨 Confusion, dizziness, disorientation
🚨 Rapid heartbeat (strong pulse)
🚨 Body temperature above 103°F (39.5°C)
🚨 Red, hot, dry skin (no sweating)
🚨 Loss of consciousness or seizures

First Aid: What to Do

🔹 For Heat Exhaustion:
✔ Move to a cool, shaded area
✔ Drink cool water or sports drinks (avoid alcohol or caffeine)
✔ Loosen tight clothing
✔ Apply cool, wet cloths or take a cool shower
✔ Rest until fully recovered

🚨 For Heat Stroke (Call 911 Immediately!)
✔ Move the person to a cool area
✔ Cool the body with ice packs (neck, armpits, groin)
✔ Spray or sponge with cool water and fan the body
✔ If alert, give small sips of water
✔ Do NOT give fluids if unconscious

Prevention Tips

✔ Stay Hydrated – Drink 8-10 glasses of water daily, more if sweating.
✔ Avoid Midday Heat – Stay indoors from 10 AM - 4 PM, the hottest hours.
✔ Wear Loose, Light Clothing – Light-colored, breathable fabrics help cool the body.
✔ Use Sunscreen & Shade – Prevent burns that reduce the body's ability to cool itself.
✔ Take Frequent Breaks – If working or exercising in the heat, rest in the shade every 30-60 minutes.
✔ Know Your Risk – Children, elderly, pregnant individuals, and those with medical conditions are more vulnerable.

When to Seek Medical Help

🚨 Confusion, fainting, or seizures
🚨 Body temperature above 103°F (39.5°C)
🚨 Rapid heartbeat or difficulty breathing
🚨 No sweating, hot dry skin

Bottom Line

✔ Recognize early signs of heat exhaustion and act quickly.
✔ Stay hydrated and cool in hot weather.
✔ Heat stroke is a medical emergency—Call 911 immediately.

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Contact a Key West orthopedic clinic or reach out to Dr. Jason Pirozzolo.