They may get tired quickly, feel weak, be less alert, and be less able to use good judgment. Unless victims are cooled quickly, they can die. Severe heat stress is fatal to more than 10 percent of its victims, even young, healthy adults. Victims may remain sensitive to heat for months and be unable to return to the same work. Learn the signs and symptoms of heat stress and take immediate action to cool down if they appear.
Heat cramps can be painful.
These are muscle spasms in the legs, arms, or stomach caused by loss of body salts through heavy sweating. Stretching or kneading the muscles may temporarily relieve the cramps. If there is a chance that stomach cramps are being caused by pesticides rather than salt loss, get medical help right away. The signs and symptoms are similar. Don't waste time trying to decide what is causing the illness.