Heat
stroke happens when the body is not able to control its temperature. The body’s temperature rises quickly and it
is unable to create sweat to cool down on its own. Body temperature may rise to 106o
F or higher within 10 to 15 minutes.
Heat stroke can cause death or permanent disability if emergency
treatment is not provided.
Warning Signs:
Hot, dry,
red skin Very
high temperature
No sweating Fast
heart beat
Dilated
pupils Confusion
Loss of
consciousness Throbbing
headache
Nausea Dizziness
Treatment:
If someone has two or more signs of heat stroke, GET
EMERGENCY CARE IMMEDIATELY! HEAT STROKE
CAN BE FATAL!!
Ø
Call or have
someone else to call 911.
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Perform CPR if
the person is not breathing or does not have a pulse
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Until emergency
care arrives, lower the body temperature by:
1.
Moving the
person to a cool, shady place or air conditioned place.
2.
Cooling
techniques (stop if the person begins to shiver)
§
Sponge person
with towels soaked in cold water.
§
Spray the person
with cool water.
§
Wrap the person
in a cool, wet sheet and fan vigorously.
§
Put ice-packs or
cold towels on the neck and under arm pits.
§
Take a cool
shower, bath or sponge bath
3.
Check body
temperature and continue cooling efforts until the body temperature drops to
101-102o F.
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If emergency
medical personnel are delayed, call the hospital emergency room for further
instructions.