Heat emergencies

The three types of heat illnesses are heat cramps (often caused by dehydration), heat exhaustion (also caused by dehydration), and heat stroke (shock, a medical emergency). Remove the victim from the heat, take off their clothing, and have them lie down. Apply ice or cool compresses, elevate the feet, give the victim fluids if they are able to drink, and use a fan to blow cool air. Get immediate medical help for heat stroke.

Review Date: 5/6/2018

Reviewed By: Diane M. Horowitz, MD, Rheumatology and Internal Medicine, Northwell Health, Great Neck, NY. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.

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