Heat-Related Illnesses

As summer arrives in Washington, we are eager to get out in the sunshine and soak up the rays, but as temperatures rise, so do the occurrence of heat-related illnesses.

Heat-Related Illnesses

It’s important to know what precautions to take to stay safe in the summer months. Heat-related illnesses are preventable. Some people such as seniors, children and those with chronic conditions are more vulnerable to hot weather. Learn the symptoms and what to do if you or a loved one shows signs of having a heat-related illness.

Heat Stroke
What to look for	What to do
High body temperature (103°F or higher) Hot, red, dry, or damp skin Fast, strong pulse Headache Dizziness Nausea Confusion Losing consciousness (passing out)	Call 911 right away-heat stroke is a medical emergency Move the person to a cooler place Help lower the person’s temperature with cool cloths or a cool bath Do not give the person anything to drink
Heat Exhaustion
What to look for	What to do
Heavy sweating Cold, pale, and clammy skin Fast, weak pulse Nausea or vomiting Muscle cramps Tiredness or weakness Dizziness Headache Fainting (passing out)	Move to a cool place Loosen your clothes Put cool, wet cloths on your body or take a cool bath Sip water Get medical help right away if: You are throwing up Your symptoms get worse Your symptoms last longer than 1 hour
Heat Cramps
What to look for	What to do
Heavy sweating during intense exercise Muscle pain or spasms	Stop physical activity and move to a cool place Drink water or a sports drink Wait for cramps to go away before you do any more physical activity Get medical help right away if: Cramps last longer than 1 hour You’re on a low-sodium diet You have heart problems
Sunburn
What to look for	What to do
Painful, red, and warm skin Blisters on the skin	Stay out of the sun until your sunburn heals Put cool cloths on sunburned areas or take a cool bath Put moisturizing lotion on sunburned areas Do not break blisters
Heat Rash
What to look for	What to do
Red clusters of small blisters that look like pimples on the skin (usually on the neck, chest, groin, or in elbow creases)	Stay in a cool, dry place Keep the rash dry Use powder (like baby powder) to soothe the rash