Kozu Clinic（高津クリニック）Motoazabu Hills B1

Heat-Related Illnesses (1) -Causes and Symptoms-

Heat-related illnesses result from being in a hot, dry environment or a hot, humid environment for prolonged periods, and not drinking enough water. High humidity, especially, interferes with the evaporation of perspiration, the body's way of cooling itself.This leads to failure of the body’s temperature control system.
This can strike anyone, but certain individuals are at higher risk: infants, children up to age 4, adults over age 65, the obese, chronic alcoholics and individuals taking certain drugs, such as antihistamines, or antipsychotic medications.

Indoor Heat-Related Illnesses

This is most likely to affect older people who live in apartments or homes lacking air conditioning or good airflow. As people age, they notice thirst less and therefore, may not drink enough water. They may also have chronic diseases, such as diabetes or a heart ailment. In an urban area, people may be especially prone to developing heat-related illnesses during a prolonged heat wave. In what is known as the "heat island effect," asphalt and concrete store heat during the day and only gradually release it at night, resulting in higher nighttime temperatures.
Even if for only a short time, staying in a vehicle without air conditioning or good airflow can cause heat-related illnesses or heat stroke.

Outdoor Heat-Related Illnesses

This is caused by an increase in body temperature brought on by intense physical activity in hot weather.

Heat-Related Illnesses Scale

Scale1: First aid and monitoring.
Consult a hospital if the condition doesn’t improve.
Symptoms: muscle pain (heat cramps), heavy perspiration, dizziness, yawning, etc.

Scale 2: Heat exhaustion.
Consult a hospital.
Symptoms: headache, nausea, vomiting, fatigue, lack of strength, etc.

Scale 3: Heat stroke
A medical emergency. Immediate hospitalization is necessary.
Symptoms: unconsciousness, confusion, seizures, high-body temperature : 104°F (40°C) or higher