Heat stroke is a serious and life-threatening condition that occurs when the body temperature reaches 104 degrees Fahrenheit or higher. Other symptoms include flushed skin, rapid pulse and breathing, muscle cramps and weakness, headache and in some cases, loss of consciousness. Body temperatures above 104 degrees Fahrenheit may cause permanent brain damage or death.
Treatment
Heat cramps and heat exhaustion are early stages of heat stroke and therefore have milder symptoms. These should be treated by moving to a cooler location, stopping exercise or other causes of over-exertion, and drinking water or a sports drink. Avoid caffeinated or alcoholic beverages. If these measures fail and your condition proceeds to heat stroke, seek medical attention immediately. Do not try to treat heat stroke on your own.
Minerals
Sodium and potassium are the primary minerals associated with hydration. As electrolytes, they belong to the class of salts that maintain fluid balance in the body fluid, tissue, and blood. Calcium, magnesium and chloride are other key electrolytes in the body. A well-balanced diet provides sufficient levels of these minerals for most people.
Sources
Sports drinks contain sodium and potassium to replace the salts lost through sweating. When you exercise in hot and humid conditions, sip a sport beverage during your workout in addition to water. If your doctor has prescribed a low-sodium diet, you should consult a health care professional before consuming sports drinks because of their salt content. In the early phases of heat-related illness, a sport drink can help restore electrolyte levels and prevent more serious symptoms. If your condition does progress to heat stroke, your doctor will use IV fluids to restore mineral balance.
