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SYMPTOMS of
heat stroke or sun stroke
Dizziness, headache, nausea
Dry, reddish, very hot skin (no sweating)
Pulse-strong & rapid
Small pupils
Very high fever
May become extremely disoriented
Unconsciousness or possible convulsions |
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What to do for Heatstroke or
Sunstroke
1. Get the person out of the sun!
2. You must get the victim cooled down.
3. Loosen or remove clothing, especially anything tight, and immerse victim in cool
water if possible.
4. If immersion isn't possible wrap the person in wet sheets and put a fan on them for
quick evaporation.
5. Another idea if immersion isn't possible, use a cool washcloth or other damp
material as a cold compress. use especially around the head & neck area, the
armpits or groin.
6. Seek medical attention immediately--continue trying to lower temp. until medical
help arrives.
7. Do NOT give any medication to lower fever--it will
not be effective and may cause further harm.
8. Do NOT use an alcohol rub.
9. It is not advisable to give the victim anything by mouth
(even water) until the temperature has come down and the condition has been stabilized.
The CAUSE of Heatstroke
The underlying cause of heat stroke is connected to the
body's occasional but sudden inability to dissipate body heat through normal means like perspiration or getting into a cooler area. This can be especially possible after strenuous physical activity.
With no way to get cooler, a person’s body continues to heat internally and the
body temperature goes up, becoming a high fever. This fever can cause permanent damage to internal organs, and can result in death if not treated immediately. The length or success of recovery depends on the duration and intensity of the heat exposure. The goal of emergency treatment is to lower the body temperature as quickly as possible and to make sure other body functions
don’t begin closing down.
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