What is Heatstroke?
During the warmer months of the year, particularly in Australia’s scorching heat, it’s essential to be aware of the first aid treatment for Heat stroke and possible ways to prevent it.
Heat stroke is a life-threatening condition in which the body’s ability to maintain a healthy temperature is compromised and overheats. You can avoid heat stroke by taking precautions in scorching weather.
Heat stroke occurs when a person’s body temperature rises from about 37°C to above 40.5°C. It is sometimes called hyperthermia (not hypothermia, which occurs when the body’s temperature drops significantly due to prolonged exposure to extreme cold).
Heat stroke needs immediate first aid to lower the body temperature as quickly as possible. Dehydration and heat exhaustion are milder types of heat-related illnesses.
Symptoms of Heatstroke
The early heat-related illness is heat exhaustion if exposed to heat and high temperatures. This happens when a person’s core body temperature rises to 38-39°C. The signs of heat exhaustion include excessive sweating, dizziness, fatigue, muscle cramps, and headaches.
It may become heat stroke if exposure to humid weather and heat waves continues. The signs and symptoms of a heat stroke situation include:
- a rapid pulse, increased heart rate, and shallow rapid breathing
- trouble speaking, slurred speech
- problems concentrating or coordinating movements
- aggressive or strange behaviour
- dizziness, confusion, seizures or loss of consciousness
- sudden rise in body temperature
- hot, red, and dry skin, possibly with no sweat
- a heat rash characterised by red spots or blisters
- dry, swollen tongue
- headache, nausea or vomiting
- intense thirst
- the casualty may also fall unconscious
Causes of Heatstroke
It is also essential to learn what causes heat stroke. It is caused by prolonged exposure to heat or a hot environment. You can get heat stroke inside or outside by exercising in the heat.
You are more likely than others to get heat stroke if you have the following risk factors:
- over 75 or very young children
- pregnant or breastfeeding
- overweight
- working or partaking in physical activity in hot conditions
- affected by chronic diseases or health conditions such as heart disease and diabetes
- taking certain medications such as diuretics and stimulants to the central nervous system
Treating Heatstroke
- Follow DRS ABCD
- Call 000—Heatstroke is a medical emergency. If you or someone you know has heatstroke, call triple zero (000), seek medical help, and ask for an ambulance.
- Remove the casualty from the heat source—move the casualty from exposure to extreme heat to a shadier and more incredible place.
- Follow the steps for Lowering Body Temperature.
- If unconscious, place them in the recovery position – for unconscious casualties, put them on their side with their mouth down (to drain any fluid) and the chin up to prevent possible suffocation. If conscious, give the person sips of cool fluid or cold water if possible.
- Do not give someone with heatstroke aspirin or paracetamol; this may worsen things.
Lowering Body Temperature:
- Removing excess clothing
- Stop any strenuous activity and remove oneself from the risk of heat. Continuation of these activities may result in exertional heatstroke as well.
- sponging or spraying them with an excellent shower of water, then fanning the damp skin
- immersing them in cool water
- placing ice packs under their armpits or groin or on the back of their neck
- drinking sports drinks to replace electrolytes
Preventing Heatstroke
Heatstroke is linked to dehydration, so in hot conditions:
- Drink plenty of water – even if you don’t feel thirsty. Avoid hot or sugary drinks.
- Keep calm – try to avoid direct sun. Wear a hat and lightweight, loose-fitting cotton clothing.
- To keep your house cool, close windows shut curtains and blinds, and use air conditioning if you have it.
- Help others – visit or phone friends, family and neighbours who are more at risk. Keep children cool and give them lots to drink. Ensure pets have plenty of water and shade.
- Have a plan – know who to call if you need help, and follow your doctor’s advice if you have any medical conditions.
- Never leave babies, children or animals alone in a car.
Complications of Heatstroke
Heatstroke is a potentially life-threatening condition. The high body temperature can damage organs and cause existing conditions to worsen. In extreme cases, heatstroke can lead to death. Learning about the symptoms of heat stroke in adults and heat stroke treatment can go a long way in helping a person.
Learn about other first aid topics like this in our nationally recognised first aid course, recommended for anyone 14 years and older.