Heatstroke/Sunstroke

Symptoms of Heatstroke/Sunstroke
- A high core body temperature (103 °F or higher)
- Either cold, clammy skinor hot, red, dry skin
Rapid heartbeat
- A splitting headache
- Vertigo
- Vomiting or nauseous
- Unconsciousness or confusion
How Heatstroke/Sunstroke Occurs
Sweating is how your body cools itself. Sweating malfunctions and your body temperature continue to rise during heatstroke. A hot environment or an activity that causes you to sweat a lot but prevents your body from cooling down can both lead to heatstroke. Dehydration, the use of specific medications, and alcohol use are additional risk factors for heatstroke.
Treating Heatstroke/Sunstroke
Heatstroke is a medical emergency that needs to be treated right away. Heatstroke can cause permanent organ damage or even death if not treated right away. Try to defuse the situation by:
- Transferring them to a cooler location
- Taking off their clothes
- Wrapping their skin in cool, wet towels.
- Fan them out
- Squeezing small sips of cool water for them.
Give them no alcoholic beverages.
How to Prevent Heatstroke/Sunstroke
Heatstroke can be avoided. Keep hydrated by drinking lots of fluids, especially in hot weather, to help prevent heatstroke. Dress comfortably in airy, light-colored clothing. If you are engaged in an activity that causes you to perspire heavily, take frequent breaks. You should also limit your exposure to warm places.