Heat-Related Illnesses and Conditions

When your body is unable to cool itself, you will experience heat-related stress. There are four major heat-related illnesses that require medical action. Although there are many complications and conditions that can occur as a result of these conditions, such as hyperthermia, the main four heat-related illnesses workers should be aware of are:

• Heat rash
• Heat cramps
• Heat exhaustion
• Heatstroke

Heat rash and heat cramps are considered moderate, and heat exhaustion and heatstroke are potentially lethal. Understanding the causes, signs, and symptoms of these heat-related illnesses is the first way that workers can prepare for and respond to high temperatures and humidity.

The following conditions can arise when the body is exposed to high temperatures and humidity in both outdoor and indoor environments. All heat-related stress incidents and illnesses can be prevented.

Heat Rash: Individuals working in high-heat and humidity environments are at risk for heat rash. Blocked sweat ducts trap sweat beneath the skin, blocking pores that create the heat rash. Symptoms vary from red, welt-like lumps to blisters. The skin may feel itchy, or it can have a tingling or prickly sensation.

Heat Cramps: Workers performing strenuous activities in hot, humid environments lose fluids and electrolytes at a rapid pace. This can result in painful, long-lasting muscle spasms or cramps. Symptoms include involuntary spasms or cramping in the following muscle groups:

• Back
• Abdomen
• Calves
• Arms

Heat Exhaustion: Workers become fatigued or exhausted in high heat and humidity conditions, especially when strenuous activity is involved. If left untreated, heat fatigue and heat exhaustion can lead to heatstroke. The symptoms of heat exhaustion include:

• Increased sweating and heart rate
• Cool or moist skin
• Goosebumps in the heat
• Faintness or dizziness
• Muscle cramps
• Headache
• Nausea

Heatstroke: Heatstroke occurs in temperatures above 104 degrees. Strenuous activity increases this risk. Heatstroke can damage the muscles, kidneys, brain, and heart. The symptoms of heatstroke include:

• Slurred speech, irritability, confusion, or agitation
• Headaches
• Flushed skin and variations in sweating, from dry skin to moist, cool skin
• Rapid breathing and racing heartrate
• Nausea and vomiting
• Coma
• Death

To learn more about HAZWOPER visit our HAZWOPER 40 Hour Online Training web page.