Heat Stroke is a true medical emergency that needs to seek immediate medical attention.

Heat stroke is caused when the body temperature is elevated and is accompanied by neurological symptoms of dizziness, slurred speech and the inability to sweat.  Heat and the inability to sweat is not the only cause of heat stroke, did you know that if you become severely dehydrated on a hot day that you stand a chance to suffer from heat stroke?   You can prevent Heat Stroke by drinking plenty of fluids during hot days, avoid alcohol and caffeinated drinks which causes you to become dehydrated.  On hot and humid days wear light colored , light weight clothes to aid  keeping the body cool.

  Who is at risk for heat stroke?

1. The elderly
2. Infants and small children
3. Outdoor workers
4. Athletes
5. Anyone working outside in dangerous heat and high humidity days.

What should I watch for in someone that is suffering from Heat stroke?

When looking for the signs and symptoms of heat stroke we need to remember the symptoms of heat exhaustion.  

1. Nausea
2. Vomiting
3. Fatigue
4. Dizziness
5. Muscle cramps/aches
6. Headaches and
7. Weakness

Other signs of Heat Exhaustion are:

1. The inability to sweat
2. High body temperature
3. Rapid pulse
4. Strange behavior
5. Confusion
6. Hallucinations
7. Seizures
8. Loss of consciousness

How do I treat someone who I think is suffering from Heath Exhaustion?

a)      Get the person to a shady and cool spot as soon as possible

b)      Remove clothing and apply cool water compresses to the person.  You may also apply ice packs to the underarm and groin to help cool the patient.

c)       Notify EMS as soon as possible.

d)      Stay with patient and monitor for changes.