Avoiding sunstroke – Part 1

Heat stroke is a life-threatening condition characterized by an inability of the body to cool itself. It usually does not occur right away but only after a prolonged period in the heat. As such, it can be prevented by simply recognizing the signs and symptoms of a heat-related illness and taking action to gently cool down the victim.

In the early stages of a heat-related illness, the victim will have the following signs and symptoms: excessive sweating; a cool body temperature; pale skin; a rapid, weak pulse; exhaustion; dizziness; nausea; and muscle cramps. This condition is sometimes called heat exhaustion.

If the victim continues to be exposed to the hot environment, he or she may continue to lose body fluids through sweating until the person becomes so dehydrated that he or she no longer sweats. At this point, body temperature begins to rise and the victim’s skin becomes hot, dry, and red. The victim may continue to feel weak, dizzy, and/or nauseous; he or she may be unconscious. This condition is the beginning of heat stroke.

As soon as you recognize the signs of heat exhaustion or heat stroke:

(1) Remove the victim from the hot environment. You can do this by moving the victim into the shade or into an air-conditioned building.

(2) Remove sweat-soaked clothing and begin to cool the victim’s body in a gradual manner. For example, soak towels or sheets in cool water and place them on the victim’s body. If you have cold packs, you can apply them (along with a towel for insulation)to the victim’s forehead, armpits, and groin. (If you have a soda machine, bottles or cans of soda can be used as emergency cold packs.)

(3) If the victim is conscious, give small sips of cool water.

(4) If the victim is unconscious or if he or she appears to be seriously ill, call 911 and monitor the victim’s pulse and breathing.

(5) Be prepared to perform CPR if necessary.