Heatstroke

Heatstroke is a very serious condition that requires immediate medical attention. It arises when the body heat reaches a point where the brain’s built-in thermostat fails and the normal responses that cool us down do not occur.

It can be the result of prolonged exposure to sun and heat or due to a high fever. Heatstroke can often follow heat exhaustion when the body ceases to sweat and cannot cool itself down by the evaporation of sweat.

In either case, the symptoms are the same and may include: Headache, dizziness and confusion, discomfort, hot and dry skin, a racing pulse, deterioration of response levels and a body temperature above 40°C.

Heatstroke is made worse, and its onset made much more rapid, by dehydration - one of the reasons why you should always drink more fluid in hotter conditions and avoid alcohol which can dehydrate you.

St John’s Ambulance advise that the main aim is to reduce the body temperature as quickly as possible and get emergency medical assistance by following the steps below:-

What to do

  • Quickly move the casualty to a cool place and remove as much of the outer clothing as possible.
  • Dial 999 or 112 for an ambulance. You should familiarise yourself with local emergency numbers if you are travelling abroad.
  • Wrap the casualty in a cold wet sheet and keep the sheet wet until the temperature falls to 38 degrees Celsius, or 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit, under the tongue or under the armpit.
  • Once the casualty’s temperature appears to have returned to normal replace the wet sheet with a dry one.
  • If no sheet is available, fan the casualty or sponge them down with cold water.
  • Always monitor and record the vital signs, the level of response, pulse and breathing rate until help arrives.
  • If the temperature starts to rise again repeat the cooling process.
  • If the casualty becomes unconscious open the airway and check breathing, seek medical advice and be prepared to give rescue breaths and chest compressions if necessary.
  • If the casualty is unconscious but breathing normally place them into the recovery position.

    Source:

  • http://www.sja.org.uk/sja/first-aid-advice/effects-of-heat-and-cold/heatstroke.aspx

Top Tip

To reduce the chance of heat stroke developing, make sure everyone drinks plenty of water on hot sunny days and always choose light cotton clothes that allow cooling air to circulate next to the skin.

     

 

PLEASE NOTE:
The information on this website is provided as a reference guide only and should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice from your pharmacist, doctor or NHS Direct. Always seek medical advice if you are unsure of the treatment required or dial 999 in an emergency.