How to Assess the Three Stages of Heat Illness

Heat-related illnesses consist of three stages, ranging from relatively mild to life threatening: heat cramps, heat exhaustion and heatstroke, respectively. Recognize and treat symptoms as soon as possible, especially before earlier stages progress to heatstroke. These guidelines follow recommendations of the American Red Cross and the Center for Disease Control.

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Step1
Check for a cramping in the leg muscles or abdomen.


Step2
Ask the person whether he or she is feeling tired, has a headache or feels nauseous or dizzy.


Step3
Look for heavy perspiration.


Step4
Continue to next section to assess for heat exhaustion. Otherwise, treat person for heat cramps (see "Treat Heat Cramps," under Related eHows).

Heat Exhaustion


Step1
Look at the person's skin for a pale color and feel it for moistness.


Step2
Check for a weak but elevated pulse.


Step3
Watch for vomiting.


Step4
Continue onto next section to assess for heat stroke. Otherwise, treat for heat exhaustion (see "Treat Heat Exhaustion," under Related eHows).

Heat Stroke


Step1
Observe the person's behavior and temperament. If he or she appears disoriented or is acting out of character or exhibiting a strange personality, suspect heatstroke and treat immediately.


Step2
Take the person's temperature. If over 104 degrees F, treat immediately for heatstroke.


Step3
Look at and feel the person's skin: Is it hot and red? If so, suspect heatstroke and treat immediately.


Step4
Check the person's heart and respiratory rate. If either is elevated, suspect heatstroke and treat immediately (see "Treat Heatstroke," under Related eHows).


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