How to Prevent and Identify Heat Stroke

Heat stroke can be life threatening. It is important to be able to recognize and treat heat stroke symptoms. During heat stroke, the body cannot sweat and cannot cool itself. Body temperature can rise rapidly, up to 106 degrees within 10 to 15 minutes of the onset. Children and the elderly, who may not be able to recognize the early warning signs of heat stroke, should be watched closely.

Things You'll Need

• Lightweight, cool clothing
• Sunglasses
• Hat
• Plenty of liquids, preferably water

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Instructions

• 1

  Prevent heat stroke by staying thoroughly hydrated while in the sun. Avoid extremely cold drinks, which can cause cramps in the stomach according to the Better Health Channel website. Take frequent breaks in the shade. This will help prevent dehydration. Wear lightweight clothing, sunglasses and a hat. Try to avoid being outdoors when the sun is at its peak. Schedule activities in the early morning or evening hours. Avoid strenuous activity.

• 2

  Know the warning symptoms of heat stroke. These include red skin that is hot and dry to the touch, lack of sweat and a rapid pulse. The patient may have a throbbing headache, confusion, dizziness and a temperature over 103 degrees. The patient may lose consciousness or experience nausea.

• 3

  According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, you should treat the victim immediately by getting her to a shaded area. Cool the body by any means possible even if it means spraying the patient with a water hose or wrapping her in a cool, damp sheet and fanning her with newspapers. Monitor body temperature with a thermometer, if possible. Try to lower the patient's temperature to at least 101 or 102 degrees. Allow the patient to sip liquids, preferably, water, but no alcohol should be given--that raises the body temperature. Contact medical personnel immediately. They will give you further instructions or tell you to bring the patient to a medical facility right away.