A "hot body" usually refers to someone experiencing overheating, which can range from mild discomfort to a life-threatening emergency. Symptoms vary depending on the severity of the heat illness.
Mild Overheating (Heat Exhaustion):
- Heavy sweating: This is often the first sign, as the body attempts to cool itself.
- Pale skin: In contrast to heat stroke, the skin may appear pale.
- Muscle cramps: Painful muscle spasms, often in the legs and abdomen.
- Weakness: General feeling of fatigue and lack of energy.
- Dizziness and headache: Lightheadedness, blurred vision, and throbbing head pain.
- Nausea and vomiting: Feeling sick to the stomach and potentially throwing up.
- Fainting: Loss of consciousness, though less common than in heat stroke.
- Rapid pulse: Heart beats faster than normal.
Severe Overheating (Heat Stroke):
Heat stroke is a medical emergency and requires immediate medical attention. Symptoms include many of those listed above, but intensified and often accompanied by:
- High body temperature: Over 103°F (39.4°C) – this is a critical indicator.
- Hot, red, dry, or damp skin: Sweating may stop as the body's cooling mechanisms fail.
- Confusion or agitation: Disorientation, difficulty concentrating, or altered mental state.
- Loss of consciousness: Unresponsiveness.
- Seizures: Uncontrolled muscle contractions.
- Rapid breathing: Breathing becomes faster and shallower.
Understanding the Differences:
It's crucial to distinguish between heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Heat exhaustion is a warning sign; heat stroke is a life-threatening condition. Seek immediate medical help if someone shows signs of heat stroke.
