First Aid: Heat Stroke

Heat stroke is caused by your body overheating. It usually is a result of prolonged exposure to hot temperatures. Heat stroke can occur if your body temperature rises to 104° F or higher. It is very common in the summer.

Causes:

• Exposure to a hot environment. Being in a hot environment leads to a rise in core body temperature. This typically occurs after exposure to hot, humid weather, especially for prolonged periods of time.
• Strenuous activity can cause an increase in core body temperature in hot weather. This is most likely to occur if you’re not used to hot temperatures.
• Wearing extra or excessive clothing prevents sweat from evaporating easily and cooling your body.
• Drinking alcohol can affect your body’s ability to regulate your temperature
• Becoming dehydrated is a result of not drinking enough water to replenish fluids lost through sweating.

Symptoms:

• High body temperature
• Altered mental state or behavior
• Alteration in sweating
• Nausea and vomiting
• Flushed skin
• Rapid breathing
• Racing heart rate
• Headache

Prevention:

• Wear loose fitting, lightweight clothing so it allows your body to cool properly.
• Protect against sunburn by applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15. Sunburn affects your body’s ability to cool itself down.
• Drink plenty of water to help your body sweat and maintain a normal body temperature.
• Take it easy during the hottest parts of the day. Drink fluids and rest frequently in a cool spot.

If you think a person may be experiencing heat stroke, seek immediate medical help or Call 911.

Take immediate action while waiting for emergency treatment:

• Get the person into shade or indoors.
• Remove excess clothing.
• Cool with whatever means available:
• Cool tub of water or a cool shower
• Fan while misting with water
• Use ice packs
• Place wet towels on the person’s head, neck, armpits and groin