What is Hyperthermia?

Hyperthermia occurs when your body "overheats" because you have either absorbed or produced more heat than your body can handle. When your body is unable to regulate its own temperature and keep itself cool, a host of unpleasant and even dangerous symptoms can occur.

Signs and Symptoms of Hyperthermia

Hyperthermia is a common problem for hikers, particularly in hot conditions where water is scarce. Symptoms of hyperthermia include:

• Heat cramps, or painful tightening of the stomach, arm or leg muscles
• Heat syncope, or sudden dizziness during or following heavy activity in hot weather
• Heat edema, or a swelling of the ankles and feet
• Heat exhaustion, or feelings of thirst, dizziness, weakness, nausea and a lack of coordination.

The above hyperthermia symptoms generally aren't serious if you take immediate action to cool your body down. If you or one of your hiking companions experiences these hyperthermia symptoms, stop your hike right away and start to administer hyperthermia treatment.

Hyperthermia Treatment

Have your hiking companion sit or lie down in a cool, shady area. She should take some time to rest while drinking water or an electrolyte-enhanced sports drink. Adding just a bit of salt to water can help minimize the risk of dehydration. Apply cool, wet cloths to her skin. Fanning air onto the body can also help to lower her body temperature.

Heat Stroke: The Final Stage of Hyperthermia

Without treatment, hyperthermia can develop into heat stroke, a dangerous condition that can even be fatal in extreme conditions. Seek immediate medical attention if you or someone you're with exhibit these symptoms:

• Body temperature over 104 degrees Fahrenheit
• Coma
• Confusion or agitation
• Dry, flushed skin
• Fainting or staggering
• Lack of sweat
• Very rapid pulse or slow, weak pulse.

Children and elderly persons are especially susceptible to hyperthermia, so it's important to be extra vigilant in watching for hyperthermia signs in any young or elderly hiking companions.