Dehydration
Dehydration is a condition caused by the casualty's loss of fluids from perspiration and prolonged exposure to heat and humidity. When the casualty's fluid loss exceeds their input through drinking, dehydration occurs and the blood volume lessens. A prolonged period of dehydration will lead to shock and, in susceptible casualties, such as the frail elderly and very young, this can be fatal.
Sign and symptoms
- Pale, cool, clammy skin
- Rapid breathing
- Profuse and prolonged sweating
- Thirst
- Loss of skin elasticity ('pinch test' on back of hand)
- Sunken eyes in children
Care and treatment
- Complete rest in the shade, no further exertion
- Remove unnecessary clothing
- Give cool water to drink
- Ensure casualty has assistance when recovered
Heat cramps
Heat cramps are caused by the loss of complex salts (electrolytes) through an imbalance in the body's fluid requirements - the body is losing more fluids than it is replacing. This debit causes the hard-working muscles to lose their vital electrolyte balance, causing muscular contraction (cramping).
Signs and symptoms
- Pale, clammy skin
- Sweating if associated with exertion
- Cramping pains in the limbs or abdomen
- Nausea
- Uncontrolled spasms of affected limb(s)
Care and treatment
- Rest in the shade
- Gently stretch the affected muscle
- Apply ice pack
- When nausea passes, give sips of cool water to drink (with caution)
Avoid massaging affected limb.
Avoid any further exercise.
Heat exhaustion
Heat exhaustion is caused by exertion accompanied by heat and high humidity
Signs and symptoms
- Pale, cool, clammy skin
- Rapid breathing
- Profuse and prolonged sweating
- Cramps in the limbs and/or abdomen
- Thirst, nausea and/or vomiting
- Constant headache
- Exhaustion and lethargy
Care and treatment
- Complete rest in the shade, no further exertion
- Lie casualty down
- Remove unnecessary clothing
- Cool casualty by sponging with water
- When nausea passes, give cool water to drink (cautiously)
- Ensure casualty seeks medical assistance when recovered
