Medindia LOGIN REGISTER
Medindia

Heat Stroke - First Aid and Emergency Treatment Guide

View in Hindi

Overview

  • Heat stroke is the most severe of all heat-related illness
  • Heat stroke could be life - threatening

Causes

  • Cooling mechanism of the body fails due to
    1. Excessive humidity
    2. Extreme heat
    3. Activity in the hot sun
  • Internal body temperature rises, leading to stroke

Risk Factors

  • Dehydration
  • Infants & older people 
  • People who work long hours, outdoor
  • Obesity
  • Impairment in sweat gland function
  • Cardiovascular disorder
  • Alcohol usage
  • Medications
Advertisement

Symptoms

  • Body temperature, greater than 1040F
  • Head ache
  • Dizziness
  • Confusion
  • Disorientation
  • Fatigue
  • Hot dry skin
  • Skin is moist, if stroke is due to exertion
  • Rapid / shallow breathing
  • Rapid heartbeat
  • Absence of sweating
  • Fluctuating blood pressure
  • Irritability
  • Confusion
  • Lack of consciousness / coma
Advertisement

Treatment

  • Remove the person to a shady place
  • Cool the person by sponging with wet towel
  • Apply ice packs in armpits and groin
  • Water with electrolyte, fruit / vegetable juice should be given 
  • Victim must be rested
Advertisement

Prevention 

  • Avoid outdoor activity during excessive heat
  • Drink plenty of fluids when working outdoors
  • During outdoor activity, splash your body frequently with water
  • Avoid alcohol / coffee / soda / alcohol 
  • Wear light weight, light- colored, loose-fitting clothes
  • Protect yourself from the sun by wearing sun glasses and hat 
Advertisement