Environmental Emergencies

Question 1

What is prickly heat?

Answer 1

1. Aka miliaria rubria or lichen tropicus
2. Acute inflammation due to blockage of sweat glands
3. Intensely pruritic on erythematous base

Question 2

What are heat cramps?

Answer 2

Caused by hyponatremia due to hydration with pure water (lacking electrolytes)

Question 3

What is heat edema?

Answer 3

1. Primarily in old people with PVD
2. Swelling of feet and ankles
3. Treat with elevation and compression
4. Diuretics won’t help

Question 4

What is heat syncope

Answer 4

1. Peripheral vasodilation with pooling of blood in lower extremities (to try to dissipate heat).
2. Leads to decreased intrathoracic and subsequently cerebral perfusion