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EXPOSURE Hypothermia & Heat Stroke. Exposure Prolonged exposure to heat or cold can cause the body to shut down Normal body temperature is 98.6f (37c)

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Presentation on theme: "EXPOSURE Hypothermia & Heat Stroke. Exposure Prolonged exposure to heat or cold can cause the body to shut down Normal body temperature is 98.6f (37c)"— Presentation transcript:

1 EXPOSURE Hypothermia & Heat Stroke

2 Exposure Prolonged exposure to heat or cold can cause the body to shut down Normal body temperature is 98.6f (37c) Temperatures 3-4 degrees above or below normal are cause for concern. In both instances of hypothermia or Heat stroke (hyperthermia), your brain function may become impaired. This can cause a bad situation to deteriorate quickly.

3 Hypothermia (Symptoms) Body tries to generate heat by rapid muscle contractions (shivers) Body conserves heat by reducing blood flow to extremities (feet/hands become numb) Reduced/impaired motor skills (muscle control) Fatigue and/or drowsiness Disorientation, impairment in judgment Unconsciousness- only essential organs are functioning (Temperature at/near 86f) Possible death (or appearance of death) Hypothermia is generally caused by insufficient clothing in cold weather or unexpected immersion / exposure to water (even in mild temperature). The result is an unwanted drop in body temperature.

4 Hypothermia (What to do) If you find yourself or a friend in a situation where the body is becoming increasingly cold you may take the following steps if possible / applicable: -Start a fire (find a heat source)…or -Change into dry clothes and/or add layers -Eat/snack to provide energy for continued activity and boost metabolism -Do not rest!!! You must keep moving to help the body generate heat (move towards nearest potential heat source. -If desperate, establish a shelter and partner up in blankets/sleeping bag with others (non clothed) in attempt to absorb warmth from others. -Keep everyone alert and awake * Each circumstance is different, and the best course of action may include other alternatives.

5 Hyperthermia (Symptoms) Muscle cramping Exhaustion High core temperature Hot to touch (no sweat/water left) Dizziness Impaired brain function Headache Loss of consciousness Hyperthermia is often a result of prolonged activity/exercise in heat/sun, and is most often due to dehydration (lack of fluid intake). The body’s mechanism for losing heat (sweat) becomes overwhelmed or even stops functioning. Prolonged Hyperthermia can result in injury to internal organs and even death.

6 Hyperthermia (What to do) Rest immediately Find shade or immerse patient (or clothes) in water (stream, lake etc..) Hydrate with fluids (non caffeinated) Monitor patient for comfortableness To reduce the risk of heat stroke, avoid strenuous activity during peak heat of the day. Regular consumption of water is critical to maintain a balanced core temperature. If you find yourself or a friend in a situation where the body is overheating you may take the following steps if possible/applicable

7 http://www.scoutscan.com/resources/wintca mp.html http://chealth.canoe.ca/channel_condition_in fo_details.asp?disease_id=68&channel_id =44&relation_id=54611


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