Heat Exhaustion and Heat Stroke

Causes of heat injuries tend to result from exposure to high temperatures and/or wearing a wet suit for extended periods before and after diving in hot weather.

Though the treatment is similar for both types of thermal injury, heat stroke is potentially much more serious and often requires medical attention.

Heat Exhaustion Symptoms

• Weak rapid pulse
• Rapid shallow breathing
• Profuse sweating
• Nausea, diarrhea, and vomiting
• Muscle cramps
• Headache, thirst and dizziness
• Flushed pale skin

Heat Exhaustion Treatment

• Lay the diver down and protect from the environment
• Remove the diver's excess clothing
• Provide sips of cool water if conscious
• Cool the diver's body with a moist cloth and fanning
• Seek medical advice

Heat Stroke Symptoms

• Sweating stops, no sweating
• Hot, red dry skin
• Rapid strong pulse which may become slow
• Rapid shallow breathing
• Convulsions
• Altered responsiveness/unresponsive

Heat Stroke Treatment

• Seek urgent medical assistance
• Lay the diver down and protect from the environment
• Monitor the consciousness, airway, breathing and begin CPR if necessary
• Cool the diver by sponging with cold water or wrapping in cool wet sheets or towels. Fanning will assist heat loss
• Provide sips of cool water if fully conscious and can swallow
• Provide supplemental oxygen if able

Diving Accidents |> Injuries Overview |> Salt Water Aspiration |> Seasickness |> Hypothermia |> Barotraumas |

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