Heat stroke
Heat stroke
Heat stroke usually starts as heat exhaustion. The brain is unable to regulate body temperature, meaning that it cannot cool down once it has become too hot. Heat stroke occurs when core body temperature exceeds 40°C, often from spending too much time in the sun. Heat stroke can also occur from continued working in a hot environment or participating in prolonged exercise in hot conditions.
Elderly people and children are at higher risk as their bodies can struggle with heat regulation. It is very important to seek urgent medical attention as heat stroke can lead to organ damage or even death if left untreated.
Signs & Symptoms
Signs and symptoms can include:
- High body temperature
- Dizziness
- Confusion and agitated or aggressive behaviour
- Delirious
- Lowered levels of response
- Rapid pulse, slow breathing
- Headache
- Nausea and vomiting
- Hot, dry (non-sweaty) skin
- Inability to walk or balance
- Seizures
Treatment
- Urgently find a cool area for the casualty.
- Cool the casualty as fast as you can you methods such as:
- Immersion in cool water
- Hoses or cold showers
- Wet blankets
- Bags of ice
- Fans
- Do not leave the casualty in a cold shower in case of collapse.
- Call 999/112.
- Cool initially for 15 minutes or until fully alert.
- Monitor ABC.
- Always seek professional medical advice even if improvement is seen.
