Hyperthermia: MDC

Lisa Dworak

Hyperthermia

Regardless of how strenuous an activity may be, any outdoor endeavor should be planned for accordingly with the correct clothing, fluids, snacks etc. The environment is important in influencing health conditions, one such being hyperthermia. While poor-physical fitness can greatly contribute to the onset and severity of a heat-related illness, anyone can be prone to illnesses such as heat cramps, heat stroke, and heat exhaustion (Howley & Franks, 2003, p. 384).

Exercise combined with outdoor conditions can significantly increase an individual’s internal temperature. Excessive body heat causes sweating, which is the mechanism for cooling oneself (evaporation). As a result, the body will experience water loss and core temperature will rise to dangerous levels. This combination results in hyperthermia, which can lead to circulatory failure and death (Howley & Franks, 2003, p. 383).

Heat illnesses vary in severity. These are common ones experienced by outdoor enthusiasts who become overheated and/or dehydrated while hiking, fishing, camping etc.

Heat Cramps:

This heat related illness is a result of an electrolyte imbalance meaning the body is lacking in sodium, potassium, and/or calcium. Most often heat cramps are a short-term problem that can be resolved by hydrating oneself and by replacing lost electrolytes (Howley & Franks, 2003, p. 384).

Heat Exhaustion:

This heat related illness may be slightly more serious than heat cramps because it is comparable to hypolvolemic shock, which is shock caused by blood loss. Dehydration to this point causes a reduction in blood plasma volume, which manifests in symptoms similar to shock such as fatigue, dizziness, etc. The best treatment is to hydrate oneself, replace lost electrolytes and rest  (Howley & Franks, 2003, p. 385).

Heat Stroke:

This heat related illness is a true medical emergency because it is a complete failure of the body’s cooling mechanisms. If the body is incapable of cooling down, internal core temperature will rise rapidly. The body can be damaged permanently so it is imperative that the victim is cooled down rapidly and is taken immediately to a medical provider (Howley & Franks, 2003, p. 385).

Resource:

Howley, E. T., & Franks, B. D. (2003). Fitness Professionals Handbook. Champaign, IL: Human Kinetics.