How to differentiate the three types of severe heatstroke
Oct 09, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Shuwen
Introduction
In general, severe heatstroke can be classified into heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke, which can be distinguished by differences in causes, symptoms, severity, treatment methods, and affected populations. Heat cramps may present symptoms such as numbness in the limbs, dizziness, and headache. Heat exhaustion may cause nausea, vomiting, and dizziness. Heat stroke may lead to fever and excessive sweating.
In general, severe heatstroke can be categorized into heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke, which can be differentiated based on various factors such as causes, symptoms, severity of harm, treatment methods, and affected populations. Specific analysis is as follows:
1. Different Causes
Heat cramps are caused by intense physical activity followed by excessive sweating and consumption of hypotonic fluids, leading to electrolyte imbalances and resulting in muscle spasms. Heat exhaustion is mostly due to prolonged exposure to high temperatures, causing excessive loss of body fluids and sodium ions, thereby reducing circulating blood volume. Heat stroke primarily results from excessive heat production or impaired thermoregulation, leading to reduced heat dissipation by the body.
2. Different Symptoms
Heat cramps may present with symptoms such as numbness in limbs, dizziness, and headache. Heat exhaustion may cause nausea, vomiting, and dizziness. Heat stroke may manifest as fever and profuse sweating.
3. Different Levels of Harm
If not treated promptly, heat cramps may progress to heat exhaustion or even full-blown heatstroke, potentially causing multi-organ damage. Heat exhaustion generally has a good prognosis, but neglecting the condition may affect blood volume and lead to persistently low blood pressure. Heat stroke is the most severe form of heat-related illness; if not treated promptly, it can result in multi-organ failure and even death.
4. Different Treatment Approaches
Patients with heat cramps or heat exhaustion may take medications such as Shidi Shui (Ten-Drop Water) or Huoxiang Zhengqi Shui under medical guidance. Patients with heat stroke may be prescribed oral chlorpromazine hydrochloride tablets or meperidine hydrochloride tablets as directed by a physician.
5. Different Affected Populations
Heat cramps commonly occur during hot summer months among individuals working in high-temperature environments or those with weak constitutions, such as laborers, farmers, and athletes. Heat exhaustion is frequently seen in people performing prolonged outdoor work, such as sanitation workers, construction workers, and traffic police. Heat stroke typically affects older adults, individuals with poor health, and obese individuals.
If a patient experiences heatstroke accompanied by other discomforts, it is recommended to seek timely medical attention at a hospital to avoid delays in treatment.
