Heat and Cold Related Emergency -

Extreme Cold & Heat Related Emergencies

Cold-related emergencies can lead to serious conditions such as hypothermia and frostbite.

Hypothermia

Hypothermia occurs when the body is exposed to cold temperatures for an extended period of time, causing the body temperature to drop dangerously low. Certain medical conditions and older adults may reduce a person’s ability to sense cold temperatures, increasing the risk of hypothermia.

Signs may include confusion, shivering, weakness, slurred speech, and drowsiness.

Treatment includes:

Removing any wet clothing
Wrapping the person in warm, dry blankets
Monitoring for signs of shock
Seeking medical attention immediately

Frostbite

Frostbite is the freezing of body tissues and commonly affects the ears, nose, cheeks, hands, and feet. Because the affected area may become numb, a person may not realize frostbite has occurred.

Treatment includes:

Gently warming the affected area with warm water
Avoiding direct heat or extreme temperatures
Seeking medical attention as soon as possible

Heat-Related Emergencies

Heat-related emergencies can also become life-threatening if not treated quickly. These conditions include heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke.

Heat Cramps

Heat cramps are painful muscle spasms caused by dehydration and overheating.

Treatment includes:

Moving to a cool location
Drinking water or a sports drink
Gently massaging the affected muscles
Resting until symptoms improve before resuming activity

Heat Exhaustion

Heat exhaustion can develop quickly and may include:

Intense thirst
Cool, pale, or clammy skin
Dizziness
Headache
Nausea
Weakness

Treatment includes:

Stopping all physical activity
Moving to a cool place and lying down
Removing excess clothing
Drinking water or sports drinks

Call 911 if symptoms do not improve. Do not allow the person to resume activity until fully recovered.

Heat Stroke

Heat stroke is a medical emergency that occurs when the body can no longer regulate its temperature, causing it to rise rapidly.

Signs and symptoms may include:

Hot, dry skin
Slurred speech
Dizziness
Severe headache
Rapid breathing
Confusion
Seizures
Loss of consciousness

Call 911 immediately. Begin cooling the person by spraying or immersing them in cool water below the neck. If the person becomes unresponsive and is not breathing normally, begin CPR.