Page 20 - BULETIN GEOTEKNIK 2023

HEAT STRESS

Penulis : Siti Hafifah binti Abdul Wahid

As we know, Malaysian currently having a very significant heat wave which affecting outdoor

activities to some people. The heat wave that happened continuously during the period leads to

heat stress condition.

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WHAT IS HEAT STRESS?

Heat Stress is is a physiological response of the body to excessive heat and environmental conditions

that result in an inability to maintain normal body temperature.

It occurs when the body's cooling mechanisms such as sweating and increased blood circulation to the

skin, are overwhelmed by high temperatures and humidity.

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RANGE OF SYMPTOMS

Heat stress can lead to a range of symptoms, from mild discomfort to severe illness or even death if not

properly managed. Common symptoms include:

Heat Rash Heat Cramps

Also known as prickly heat, heat rash is a Heat cramps are painful muscle contractions

skin irritation that occurs when sweat gets that can occur during or after intense physical

trapped in sweat ducts. It can result in red, activity in hot conditions. They are often

itchy, and sometimes painful rashes. caused by an electrolyte imbalance and

dehydration.

Heat Stroke Heat Exhaustion

Heat stroke is a severe and potentially life- This is a milder form of heat stress that

threatening condition. It occurs when the body's typically occurs when a person is

core temperature rises to dangerously high levels, exposed to high temperatures and

usually above 40 degrees Celsius. Symptoms can becomes dehydrated. Symptoms may

include confusion, hot and dry skin, rapid heart rate, include heavy sweating, weakness,

nausea, vomiting, seizures, and even dizziness, nausea, headache, and an

unconsciousness. Heat stroke requires immediate increased heart rate. If not treated

medical attention and can be fatal if not treated promptly, heat exhaustion can progress to

promptly. heat stroke.

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