Cures for Sunstroke

Sunstroke, which is a form of heat exhaustion, happens when the body overheats and your internal temperature is elevated. It is caused by over exposure to the sun and dehydration. Symptoms can range in severity but can include headache, dizziness, vomiting, little or no perspiration and a high temperature. While there is not one specific cure for sunstroke, acting quickly to reduce the symptoms will ensure a speedier and complete recovery.

Protect Yourself in the Shade

• If you suspect that someone has sunstroke, take them to a shaded and cool area immediately. Further exposure to the sun will only worsen their symptoms and could be potentially dangerous to their health. Avoid them having any further exposure to the sun, remaining indoors or in a shaded area for the next 48 hours, and, if possible, seeking somewhere that is air-conditioned or at least has plenty of fresh, cool air.

Cool Down and Hydrate

• Remove any excess clothing and apply cold flannels or some ice packs directly onto to the skin. Give them plenty of fluids to drink including water and a sports energy drink containing salt and sugar and put them with ice cubes if possible. Avoid them drinking any fluids containing caffeine because these will further dehydrate the person.

Improve circulation

• The flow of blood may be affected in sunstroke so massaging the skin in slow, fluid motions will help to boost circulation and encourage a gradual return to optimum body temperature.

Emergency measures

• Immersion in a bath of cold water and ice can achieve rapid cooling when sunstroke is advanced. An alternative way to achieve instant cooling is by spraying the body with a cold mist of water while simultaneously hovering a fan of warm air over the body whereby the contrast in temperatures can promote immediate loss of heat through evaporation. In severe cases, sunstroke can induce a coma, so if a person is unresponsive put them in the recovery position, on their side and lying down with their head propped up with a pillow.