Heat Stroke

Heat stroke or sun stroke occurs due to exposure to a very high temperature which causes sudden overheating of the body. It is the most severe form of heat injury as it can quickly damage muscles, brain, heart and kidneys. In heat stoke the core body temperature rises 104˚F and above.

Symptoms of Heat Stroke

• High body temperature
• Excruciating headache
• Dizziness
• Redness and dryness of skin
• Nausea and vomiting
• Rapid and shallow breathing
• High pulse rate
• Muscle Cramps
• Loss of consciousness, hallucination and seizures
• Lack of sweating despite the heat

Treatment for Heat Stroke

Immediate treatment for heat stoke is to cool the body to prevent the further damage.

• The patient should be given a cold bath
• Patient should be sprayed with cold water and air should be fanned onto the body which will help in evaporation cooling
• Ice packs should be applied to neck, armpits, and groins of the patient to cool down the body
• Muscle relaxants as prescribed by the doctors may be given if the body temperature is not falling

Prevention of Heat Stroke

• Keep yourself hydrated.
• Wear light colored and loose fitted clothes
• Avoid going out during 11:00 am – 3:00 pm which is the hottest part of the day
• Avoid strenuous activities
• Use hats and sunscreen
• Avoid excess alcohol
• Take cool baths
• Never leave anyone in parked cars

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