GotoAID - Heatstroke / Hyperthermia

First Aid Index

People

Cats

Dogs


Search
GotoAID does not provide any medical advice or treatment, it is solely for informational purposes only

Respiratory

Emergency

Bites/Stings

Cuts/Wounds

Breaks & Sprains

Poisons

Burns

Medical Problems

Heat Stroke

Heat stroke occurs when increasing body temperature far exceeds the body’s ability to lower it. A true, life-threatening emergency, heat stroke can result in a temperature in excess of 105˚ F (40˚ C). Such a high body temperature can quickly cause permanent damage to the organs, including the brain and spinal cord.

Symptoms

Very warm or even hot skin	Dizziness
Seizure	Dry Skin (may be wet early on)
Altered mental status	Light-headedness
Unresponsiveness

Steps

Activate EMS or call for emergency assistance without delay.

Begin aggressive cooling measures with available resources: If possible, immerse the person in cold water up to the chin.

If not, cover the head and torso with wet towels or sheets and fan, and/or apply ice packs to the victim’s neck, groin, and armpits.

Provide continuous cooling until EMS arrives.

Warnings

Be safe! Make sure repeated injury does not occur.

Give nothing to eat or drink.

Tips

With rapid cooling and medical treatment, the survival rate for heat stroke approaches 90%

If unresponsive, place the victim on his or her side in the recovery position to protect the airway.

READ THIS

Suggestions

FEEDBACK

BOOKMARK US