Heat and Cold Related Injuries

Question 1

Six Types of Heat Injuries

Answer 1

1. Sunburn
2. Prickly heat rash
3. Fungus infections
4. Heat cramps
5. Heat exhaustion
6. Heat stroke`

Question 2

Heat Cramps Treatment

Answer 2

Give the victim small sips of cool water.
Remove the victim to a cool or shaded area.
Massage cramped muscles.
If indications of a more serious condition are present, transport the victim to medical attention

Question 3

Heat Cramps Symptoms

Answer 3

Muscle cramps, particularly in the legs and abdomen.
Profuse sweating and faintness.

Question 4

Heat Exhaustion Symptoms

Answer 4

Rapid, shallow breathing.
Dizziness.
Blurred vision.
Pale, clammy skin.
Profuse sweating, normally accompanies this condition.

Question 5

Heat Exhaustion Treatment

Answer 5

Remove excessive clothing.
Place the victim in a cool, shaded area.
Fan or sprinkle victim with water to keep cool.
If conscious, give victim small sips of water.
Treat victim also for shock,.
Seek medical attention should indications of a more serious problem exist.

Question 6

Heat Stroke Symptoms

Answer 6

Shortness of breath.
Weakness.
Headache.
Dizziness.
Loss of appetite.
Nausea.
Muscle-twitching leading to convulsions.
Dilated pupils.
Lack of sweating.
Full, fast pulse; delirium and eventual loss of consciousness.

Question 7

Difference between heat exhaustion and heat stroke

Answer 7

The major difference in symptoms between heat exhaustion and heat stroke is that during heat stroke the victim will not sweat and will have hot, dry, flushed skin. Body temperatures may range from 104 to 108 degrees F; death will occur if the body temperature is not lowered.

Question 8

What is frostbite?

Answer 8

Frostbite is the freezing of flesh. Frostbite is caused when the body restricts blood flow to the appendages to conserve core heat. The surface tissues actually freeze, and with continued chilling, the frozen area extends to deeper levels. Note: Frost nip or superficial frostbite may affect the nose, checks and ears, and may appear as a white patch on the skin.

Question 9

What is trench foot?

Answer 9

Trench foot (also called immersion foot) is caused by moisture trapped against the skin for an extended period (e.g. inside a boot) which waterlogs the tissues. When these boots are worn for long periods without changing socks, the feet become moist and sweaty. Trench foot is commonly found when wearing waterproof or vapor barrier- type boots (“Mickey Mouse” boots) for too long.