How To Treat A Heat Stroke

Apply Cool Packs To Key Body Parts

One cooling strategy is to apply cool packs to key body parts. Ice packs and other cold items, like packages of frozen vegetables, can be applied to many areas of the body. The best locations for bringing down temperature are the back, neck, groin, and armpits. These areas all have many blood vessels located just beneath the skin. Cooling the blood circulating through the system helps to cool the body overall faster.

Some individuals cannot tolerate ice, so avoid using an ice treatment on chronically ill patients, young children, seniors and on those whose stroke was not a result of overexercising. In these cases, wet the patient's skin with a garden hose or sponge while fanning air over them. If it is possible, immerse them in a cool bath, but not an ice bath! The only time you would use an ice bath is if the individual is a young, healthy athlete whose head stroke was a result of vigorous exercise.

Something To Drink

If a person is dehydrated, they are at a much higher risk of having a heat stroke. Dehydration might occur due to not drinking enough water, chronic disease, or excessive consumption of alcohol. Chronically ill individuals may overheat more easily than others, depending on their illness and how it affects their body temperature regulation.

You should bring the person something to drink. If you aren't sure of their medical history or potential allergies, water is a good option. Cold water is even better, as this will spread throughout the system to further cool it down. If the person can tolerate electrolytes, athletic drinks with electrolytes might help mitigate the heat stroke symptoms. Stay away from sodas and caffeinated beverages, as these are dehydrating. Fruit juices like orange juice are excellent, but avoid fruit juices with unnecessarily added sugars.