TEMPERATURES are rising ... and with this comes the threat of heat stroke. Would you recognise the signs and know what to do?
Heat stroke is a life-threatening condition because the body's temperature can rise far above normal to the point where it stops sweating.
The body essentially loses its ability to control temperature and, if left untreated, it can damage the brain, heart, kidneys and muscles.
Heat stroke usually results from prolonged exposure to a hot, humid and perhaps poorly ventilated environment.
Those more likely to suffer from heat stroke are the elderly and those in poor health, as well as infants and small children.
It's important to recognise the signs and symptoms of heat stroke, not to be confused with a fever.
- Body temperature rapidly rises to 40 degrees C or higher - the person is distinctly hot to the touch.
- The pulse is rapid and full but gets weaker in later stages.
- Breathing may be noisy.
- Skin is hot and dry in classic heat stroke and flushed. In exertional heat stroke (caused by heavy physical exertion in high temperatures) the skin is hot and sweaty.
- Casualty is restless and may complain of a headache, fatigue, dizziness and nausea.
- Vomiting, convulsions and unconsciousness.
Heat stroke can be easily confused with heat exhaustion. Remember: in heat stroke the skin is hot and flushed and may be dry or wet.
Heat exhaustion occurs when someone is exposed to high temperatures which prompt excessive sweating, leading to salt and water depletion within the body.
So, what to do?
Lowering the body temperature is the first and most urgent first aid. The person's life may depend on how quickly this can be done.
1. Apply the first aid regime DRSABCD (Danger Response Shout Airways Breathing Compression Defibrillation).
2. Move them to a cool, shaded place.
3. Begin cooling the person. Remove outer clothing and cover them with wet sheets and fan the sheets to increase cooling.
4. Place ice packs covered in tea towels (or similar) on the armpits, neck and groin areas.
5. When their body feels cool to the touch, cover them with a dry sheet. Monitor closely. If their temperature begins to rise again, repeat the cooling process. If they are conscious, place them in a supine position (on their back) with both legs elevated. If they are unconscious, move them into the recovery position.
6. Provide the person with water or drinks (preferably isotonic sports drinks that contain electrolytes). Do not attempt to provide any form of solid food.
7. Continue to provide ongoing care until medical help arrives.
* Information provided by St John Ambulance (Qld) - www.stjohnqld.com.au
