Heat stroke, the most severe form of heat emergencies, develops quickly and is potentially life-threatening. Long, extreme exposure to the sun or vigorous activity in extreme heat causes the body's cooling system to break down, allowing the internal temperature to rise to dangerous levels. The first signs of heat emergency are heat cramps, followed by dehydration and heat exhaustion, and finally heat stroke, according to the National Institutes of Health (NIH). Symptoms include headache, dizziness, disorientation, confusion, agitation, rapid pulse, high body temperature and hot, dry skin without sweat, seizures and loss of consciousness. Heat stroke can cause shock, brain damage, organ failure and death if left untreated.
Step 1
Move the person indoors or into a shaded area. Have him lie down with his feet elevated.
Step 2
Contact emergency medical services. Report whether or not the person shows signs of shock (bluish lips and fingernails and decreased alertness), has a seizure or loses consciousness. Follow the dispatcher's instructions.
Step 3
Cool the person's body by removing extra clothing, applying cool compresses and fanning him. If available, apply ice packs to the neck, groin and armpits to speed cooling.
Step 4
If the person is able to drink fluids, offer Gatorade or salted water--1 tsp. of salt per quart of water--every 15 minutes. Do not offer fluids to someone who is vomiting.
Step 5
Massage legs gently if the person complains of muscle cramps.
Step 6
If the person refuses emergency transport, encourage him to go to the nearest emergency room as intravenous fluids may be needed to treat dehydration and electrolyte loss.
Tips and Warnings
- To prevent heat emergencies, drink plenty of fluids during heat exposure; wear lightweight clothing, a hat and sunglasses in the sun; avoid outdoor activity during the hottest times of the day (generally noon to 6 p.m.); and mist yourself with a spray bottle to avoid becoming overheated. Children, the elderly, people who work outdoors and people on certain medications are at higher risk for heat emergencies. Observe yourself and others for early symptoms of heat illness, including profuse sweating, fatigue, thirst and muscle cramps.
- Do not administer medications to lower the fever, including aspirin or acetaminophen (Tylenol). Do not underestimate the seriousness of heat illness, especially if the person is a child.
Things You'll Need
- Cool water
- Washcloths
- Ice packs
- Gatorade or salt solution
