Heat Stroke

Heat stroke is a form of heat illness often resulting in a potentially life threatening event. Heat stroke occurs when a person's body core temperature increases to a level that is well above the "safe level" within the body's internal temperature range. Initial signs of heat stroke often include heat cramps and if precautions are not made to cool off and rehydrate at this point, the more severe stage of heat illness and heat exhaustion, can occur.
So what can we do as treatment if one is suffering from heat stroke? First. immediately seek emergency medical care. While awaiting emergency medical services, try to cool the person down while also doing one or all of the following:

1. Ensure that the person is resting with +legs slightly elevated, in a shaded area or cool or air-conditioned building, room, or car.
2. Remove or loosen the person's clothes.
3. Give the person an electrolyte drink, such as Gatorade® or Pedialyte®, or water if not available. Note: You can make a salted drink by adding 1 teaspoon of salt to one quart of water. Do not give beverages that contain caffeine or alcohol.
4. Wrap the person in wet cloth, and position a fan toward him/her. Evaporation of water on the skin aids in cooling.
5. Apply cold compresses to such areas as the neck, armpits, and groin.

Just a reminder that a person suffering from heat stroke may also display the following symptoms:

1. A high body temperature (above 102° F)
2. Skin that is red and hot with lack of sweating 
3. Small pupils
4. A rapid or weak pulse
5. Rapid, shallow breathing
6. Extreme confusion or irritability
7. Weakness in limbs
8. Seizures
9. Unconsciousness

Stay safe this summer and if you suspect that you or a loved one is suffering from heatstroke, immediately seek emergency care.