Heat exhaustion and heat stroke occur when the body loses the ability to cool itself, often when it's hot outside or during physical exertion. Untreated heat exhaustion can lead to heat stroke. Heat exhaustion symptoms include cool, moist skin, heavy sweating and fatigue. Symptoms of heat stroke include hot skin without visible sweat, confusion, loss of consciousness, difficult breathing and vomiting. Heat stroke can occur when the body's internal temperature reaches 106 degrees. The condition can be fatal.
Heat Exhaustion
Step 1
Remove the person from the heat. Move into a shady area or an air-conditioned building.
Step 2
Encourage hydration. Offer water, as well as sports beverages to balance the body's electrolytes. Do not offer alcohol, soda or similar drinks, advises the American Academy of Family Physicians' website Family Doctor.
Step 3
Remove tight and restrictive clothing to increase the cooling process, advises Family Doctor.
Step 4
Apply cool water to the skin. Use wet washcloths or paper towels dipped in cold water. Encourage the person to take a cool bath or shower, if available.
Heat Stroke
Step 1
Call 9-1-1 if you suspect a heat stroke. Heat stroke can damage the internal organs and the brain.
Step 2
Remove the person from the sun and take him inside or to a shady area. Remove all tight clothing and apply cool water to the skin. Spray with a water bottle or cover the body with damp sheets, the Mayo Clinic recommends. Tepid water is all that is necessary to cool the body.
Step 3
Place ice packs between the legs, in the armpits and on the neck and back to encourage a decrease in body temperature, advises Family Doctor. Direct airflow to the body by fanning with a newspaper or turning on a fan.
Step 4
Encourage hydration by offering small amounts of cold water or a sports beverage. Do not offer alcohol or caffeinated drinks.
Step 5
Wait until medical personal arrive. Never leave a person suffering from heatstroke alone.
Tips and Warnings
- Suffering from heat exhaustion or heat stroke makes a person more sensitive to hot conditions for about a week after the heat-related illness occurs. Insist that he refrain from physical activity and remain inside.
Things You'll Need
- Water
- Sports beverage
- Washcloths or paper towels
- Bath or shower
- Water bottle
- Damp sheets
- Ice packs
- Newspaper
- Stationary fan
