• Heat stroke is a form of hyperthermia in which the body temperature is elevated dramatically.
• Heat stroke is a medical emergency and can be fatal if not promptly and properly treated.
• Cooling the victim is a critical step in the treatment of heat stroke.
• The most important measures to prevent heat strokes are to avoid becoming dehydrated and to avoid vigorous physical activities in hot and humid weather.
• Infants, the elderly, athletes, and outdoor workers are the groups at greatest risk for heat stroke.

What are heat strokes symptoms and signs?

• high body temperature
• hot red or flushed dry skin but no sweating
• rapid pulse
• confusion
• agitation
• disorientation
• difficulty breathing
• strange behavior
• dehydration
• seizure/coma
• hallucinations

FIRST AID FOR HEAT STROKE

Recognizing the symptoms of heat stroke is the first step in treatment. Immediately remove a heat stroke victim from the direct sunlight or source of heat, by taking him to a shady, cool spot.

Loosen the victim's clothing or remove layers of clothing. Exposing the skin to air circulation helps with cooling. Then, use cool, damp cloths or towels and cover the victim's exposed skin to aid with cooling. Keep the cloths damp with cool water and replace them as needed.

Give the victim sips of water if he is conscious and able to swallow. Dehydration often occurs during heat stroke and providing small, frequent sips of water will help rehydrate the victim. Do not offer the victim anything but water, as other liquids, such as alcohol or caffeine, can make dehydration worse. In addition, don't attempt to give water to a victim unable to swallow, as choking can result.

Allow the victim to lie on her side. This offers protection against injury should the victim faint, and also keeps the airway clear if vomiting ensues. Then, stay with the victim until medical help arrives.

A rise in body temperature is normally one of the first symptoms of a heat stroke. In case your body is at a temperature of 104 degrees F (40 degrees C) of more, it is probably an indication of a heat stroke.

R. Y. Manabat, R.N.