Heat and Cold Related Emergencies

Front

What are heat cramps?

Back

Painful muscle spasms, usually in legs or abdomen, caused by heavy sweating and low salt levels.

Front

How to treat heat cramps?

Back

Help the person rest in a cool place and drink water or sports drink.

Front

What are the symptoms of heat exhaustion?

Back

Pale skin, dizziness, sweating, nausea, headache.

Front

How to treat heat exhaustion?

Back

Move to a cooler area, loosen clothes, give water. Call 911 if symptoms don’t improve.

Front

What are the signs of heat stroke?

Back

Life-threatening: hot, red skin, confusion, unconsciousness.

Front

How to treat heat stroke?

Back

Call 911 immediately. Cool person with wet cloths or fans, don’t give drinks if unconscious.

Front

What is frostbite?

Back

Skin becomes pale, hard, and numb (usually fingers, toes, nose).

Front

How to treat frostbite?

Back

Move to warm area, remove wet clothes, warm area slowly (not by rubbing). Seek medical help.

Front

What are the signs of hypothermia?

Back

Shivering, confusion, slurred speech, very cold skin.

Front

How to treat hypothermia?

Back

Move to warm space, wrap in blankets, call 911. Handle gently, avoid fast rewarming.