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Heat Stroke The body cools itself through perspiration. Heat Stroke occurs when the body is unable to cool itself and can become life threatening. Heat stroke can affect anyone, however the very young and very old are at greater risk.
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Heat Stroke and Heat Exhaustion By Laura Schwartz, MSN, FNP-BC,
COHNS
Summer Safety Heat Stroke and Heat Exhaustion By Laura Schwartz,
MSN, FNP-BC, COHNS Heat Stroke The body cools itself through
perspiration.
Heat Stroke occurs when the body is unable to cool itself and can
become life threatening. Heat stroke can affect anyone, however the
very young and very old are at greater risk. How Heat Stroke Occurs
Working, playing or exercising without drinking enough fluids is
the main cause of heat stroke, especially in hot weather. In dry
weather perspiration helps to cool the body quickly.In humid
weather the body cools much slower. The bodys core temperature
rises to dangerous levels affecting essential body functions and
organs. Symptoms of Heat Stroke
Elevated body temperature Strong rapid heartbeat Rapid shallow
breathing Low blood pressure Headache, small pupils, nausea,
dizziness Confusion, strange behavior, disorientation
Irritatbillity, confusion or loss of consciousness. Unable to sweat
with red, dry, hot skin. What to do Call 911 Place in cool area.
Immerse victim in cool water
Wrap in wet sheets and hand fan or put in front of fan. Apply cold
compresses to head, neck and groin. Prevent Heat Stroke Drink large
amounts of water regularly.
Wear loose light colored clothes. Relax in the shade. Avoid coffee
or alcoholic beverages. Heat Exhaustion Not life threatening but
can lead to heat stroke.
Heavy sweating Weak rapid pulse Elevated temperature Cool, pale,
clammy skin Symptoms of Heat Exhaustion
Headache, nausea, fatigue Dizziness or lightheadedness Low blood
pressure Can be revived from fainting. Dark Urine What to do Place
victim in cool place and lay down
Give frequent small sips of liquid every few minutes. Watch for
worsening condition.In normal cases there is no need to call 911.
Infants - Caution Treat infants who are overheated
differently.
Infants who drink a lot of water can actually decrease the salt
level in their body enough to cause seizures.A result of water
intoxication. The best thing for babies is formula or mother's
milk, because they contain essential salt protectors. Johns Hopkins
director of Pediatric Emergency Dr. Alan Johns Hopkins director of
Pediatric Emergency Dr. Alan Healthy Tips for Men Eat Healthy, 5+
Fruit & Vegs, animal fat
Maintain a Healthy Weight Increase activity, start slow, do
something fun Quit smoking Get routine exams and screenings Get
appropriate vaccinations Manage Stress Balance obligations,
activity Know your Risk -work, sports, genetic history Protect
self-sun screen, seat bealt, wash hands Get enough sleep