Heat Stroke and Heat Exhaustion

Learn the difference between heat stroke, heat exhaustion, signs and symptoms, and what to do.

HEAT STROKE

Heat stroke occurs when heat exhaustion is left untreated and the victim’s core body temperature continues to rise. Heat stroke is a severe emergency that can lead to coma, irreversible brain damage and death. Learn to recognize heat stroke and treat the victim aggressively to prevent further injury.

Signs and symptoms of heat stroke:

• coma or confusion
• hot, flushed, dry skin
• deep, rapid breathing
• possibly seizures

Treatment of heat stroke:

Call 911 immediately!

1. Assure that the victim has an airway and is breathing. Follow the ABC’s of first aid.
2. Move the victim to a cooler environment immediately. Shade is better than sun; air conditioning is better than outside, etc. The cooler the better.
3. Remove the victim’s clothing to encourage heat loss.
4. Put ice on the armpits, groin, and neck area. Cool the victim as aggressively as possible.

Tips:

1. Strip the victim completely to facilitate cooling.
2. Cover the victim with a sheet soaked with water to cool the victim’s body.
3. Use ice at the victim’s armpits, neck, and groin.
4. DO NOT give the victim of heat stroke anything to drink.
5. A victim conscious enough to follow commands may be suffering from heat exhaustion.

HEAT EXHAUSTION

Heat exhaustion is caused by an increase in core body temperature often coupled with fluid loss (dehydration).

It’s important to recognize heat exhaustion early and seek treatment as quickly as possible. It does not need to be hot outside for heat exhaustion to occur. Many victims develop heat exhaustion just from exertion.

Heat exhaustion can lead to heat stroke if not treated in time.

Signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion:

• weakness
• dizziness
• warm, moist, pale skin
• nausea and vomiting

Treatment of heat exhaustion:

1. Make sure the patient has an airway and is breathing. Follow the ABC’s of first aid.
2. Move the victim to a cooler environment immediately. Shade is better than sun; air conditioning is better than outside, etc. The cooler the better.
3. Remove the victim’s clothing to encourage heat loss.
4. If the victim is conscious and able to follow commands, he or she can drink fluids to rehydrate.
5. If the victim is unable to follow commands or is vomiting call 911 immediately!

Tips:

1. For victims of heat illness that have stopped sweating and/or are unconscious, treat for heat stroke. Call 911 immediately!

By Rod Brouhard
about.com