Heat Stroke - First Aid and Emergency Treatment Guide

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

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

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

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