What are some heat-related illnesses I can experience while working outdoors?

No matter how much water you drink, how many breaks you take, or how much protective gear you wear, sometimes the Florida heat and humidity are too much to handle. Both can create risks if you work outdoors. 

If you’ve ever experienced heat stroke, you know that it can be very serious and requires immediate attention. And if your job requires that you work outside, you may worry about experiencing other heat-related illnesses.  

Types of Heat-Related Injuries

Long-term exposure to heat and humidity without proper fluids or relief can cause many heat-related illnesses. Here, learn four others that can be potentially dangerous:

• Heat exhaustion. Caused by excessive sweating, heat exhaustion is the result of losing an excessive amount of water and salt. Symptoms include muscle cramps, shallow breathing, nausea, clammy and moist skin, and extreme weakness.
• Heat syncope. This illness involves a fainting episode or dizziness that occurs after prolonged standing or sudden rising from a sitting or lying position. Dehydration and lack of acclimatization are often factors of heat syncope.
• Heat cramps. Heat cramps are temporary muscle cramps that often occur in people who are active in hot weather. Sweating depletes the body of salt, which can cause a person to experience excruciating cramps. The cramps typically occur in the arms, legs, and abdomen.
• Heat rash. Although not especially dangerous, heat rash is uncomfortable and can make working outdoors difficult. Appearing as a red cluster of pimples or small blisters, heat rash is typically the result of excessive sweating in hot and humid weather conditions.

Getting Workers’ Comp for Your Heat-Related Injury

The medical bills and loss of income because of your heat injury may be covered by workers’ compensation. The attorneys of Johnson and Gilbert want to help you get the help you need and deserve. Contact us by filling out our online form or by calling us at 800.556.8890. Request your free copy of the book It’s Not Rocket Science, It’s Workers’ Comp.