Hyperthermia

What are differential diagnoses for hyperthermia?

• heat cramps

• heat edema

• heat exhaustion

• heat syncope

• heat stroke

• stimulant drug use

• fever/sepsis

• dehydration

• medication adverse reaction

What are signs and symptoms of hyperthermia?

• flushed

• dry or sweaty

• muscle cramps

• nausea/vomiting

• tachycardia/hypotension/poor perfusion

• elevated temperature

• AMS

What are important history questions to ask hyperthermic patients?

• ambient temp

• meds/drugs

• exertion level

• time of exposure to heat

• attire

• fluid intake

Steps for identification and treatment of hyperthermia.

1. symptoms of heat-related illness

2. move victim to cool area and shield from sun/heat

   1. remove clothing

   2. if AO, give small sips of cool liquid

   3. if AMS, check FSBG

3. assess for signs of shock

   1. prep IV

   2. administer NS or LR 20mL/kg

4. temp >104F or AMS

   1. active cooling

      1. mist exposed skin

      2. cover exposed skin with cool wet sheets

      3. apply ice packs(cheeks, palms, soles)

What are heat(muscle) cramps?

• minor muscle cramps in legs/abdomen

• temp normal

What is heat exhaustion?

• salt and water depletion

• gradual onset

• progression —> tachycardia, hypotension, elevated temp, painful cramps

• headache, nausea, vomiting

• heat exhaustion can progress to heat stroke

What is heat stroke?

• cooling mechanism fails

• electrolyte imbalances

• AMS

• temp >104F

• altered LOC