This condition is also referred to as sunstroke and is a life-threatening condition.  It is the result of prolonged exposure to heat and humidity, possibly in a poorly ventilated area.  There are two classifications of heat stroke: Classic heatstroke and Exertional heatstroke.  While anybody can develop heatstroke, it is the elderly population that is most likely to be affected.

Physiological explanation of heatstroke:

In classic heatstroke, the body’s cooling mechanism shuts down and sweating ceases.  This allows the body’s temperature to rise rapidly and put vital organs and systems at risk.

In exertional heatstroke, the body’s temperature rises rapidly due to physical activity but sweating continues.  Again, vital organs and systems are at risk because of abnormally high body temperature.

What are the signs/symptoms of heatstroke?

- skin is flushed, hot and dry in classic heatstroke and hot, flushed and wet in exertional heatstroke*

- pulse is rapid and full (will likely get weaker at later stage)

- noisy breathing

- restlessness, nausea, dizziness, fatigue

- vomiting, convulsions, unconsciousness

*Use the skin condition to distinguish between heat exhaustion and heatstroke.  In heat exhaustion, the skin is cold and clammy, while in heatstroke the skin is hot and flushed and can be wet or dry.

How do I treat someone who I suspect has heatstroke?

1)      Move them to a cool, dry location.

2)      Remove clothing

3)      Cool individual by doing one of the following:

a.       Cover individual with wet sheets and direct a fan at the sheets.

b.      Immerse individual in cool bath (do not leave them unattended)

c.       Sponge the individual with cool water (target the armpits, neck and groin areas because cooling these areas helps to cool the whole body more quickly)

4)      When individual’s body is cool to the touch, cover them in a dry blanket.  Monitor them and if their temperature starts to rise again, repeat the cooling process.

5)      Continue to monitor until medical help has arrived.

This condition is extremely serious and should be dealt with immediately.  Follow the treatment protocol I have described above and make sure to seek professional medical advice as soon as possible.