How to Prevent Heat Stress

Heat stress is a series of conditions where the body becomes stressed from overheating. Heat-related illnesses include heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and even heat stroke. Each has its symptoms and treatments.

You can treat heat stress, but preventing it is better. Each condition can be managed differently. For heat cramps, you must get out of the hot environment, stop using your large muscle groups, drink water, and replace electrolytes. For heat exhaustion, we are advised to get out of the heat and take off any excessive clothing, particularly around the head and neck. Drink a liter of water (slowly, so nausea doesn’t develop), lie down with your feet up, and use a fan for cooling. The problem should go away in 30 minutes. If not, medical attention may be needed.

Heatstroke is a medical emergency. Your first and biggest objective is to lower the [body’s] core temperature by any means available. Those include cold packs on the neck, armpits, and groin, coverage with wet sheets or towels, and placement in a highly air-conditioned room. Medical help should be summoned immediately. Untreated heatstroke can quickly damage your brain, heart, kidneys, and muscles. The damage worsens the longer treatment is delayed, increasing your risk of serious complications or death.