Heat Stroke is the most serious heat-related illness. It occurs when the body becomes unable to control its temperature:
the body’s temperature rises rapidly,
the sweating mechanism fails, and
the body is unable to cool down.
Warning! Body temperature may rise to 106°F or higher within 10 to 15 minutes. Heat stroke can cause death or permanent disability if emergency treatment is not provided. Seek medical attention immediately.
Symptoms:
• An extremely high body temperature (104°F or higher) • Red, hot, and dry or moist skin
• Rapid, strong pulse • Throbbing headache
• Dizziness • Nausea
• Confusion • Unconsciousness
Treatment:
Have someone call for immediate medical assistance while you begin cooling the person. Response time will be critical.
Remove restrictive or excess clothing;
Cool the person rapidly:
Immerse him or her in a tub of cool water or ice water or place the person in a cool shower;
Spray the person with cool water from a water hose;
Sponge the person with cool water;
Use icebags at neck, armpit, and groin area; or if the humidity is low, wrap the person in a cool, wet sheet and fan him or her vigorously.
Monitor body temperature and continue cooling efforts until body temperature drops to 101-102°F (should then be removed from water to prevent overcooling).- If the person is alert, give him or her sips of cool water.
• Do not give the person alcohol to drink.- If emergency medical personnel are delayed, call the hospital emergency room for further instructions.
Go to azdhs.gov for original handout
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