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| Heat Stroke | ||
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Heat
stroke occurs when the body is unable to regulate its temperature. The
body's temperature rises rapidly, the sweating mechanism fails, and the
body is unable to cool down. Body temperature may rise to 106°F or
higher within 10 to 15 minutes. Heat stroke can cause death or permanent
disability if emergency treatment is not provided. Recognizing Heat Stroke Warning signs of heat stroke vary but may include the following: |
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High body temperature (above 103°F, orally. Red, hot, and dry skin
(no sweating. Rapid, strong pulse, throbbing headache, dizziness, nausea,
confusion, unconsciousness |
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What
should you do? If you see any of these signs, you may be dealing with
a life-threatening emergency. Have someone call for immediate medical
assistance while you begin cooling the victim. Do the following: |
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Get the victim to a shady area. Cool the victim rapidly using whatever
methods you can. For example, immerse the victim in a tub of cool water;
place the person in a cool shower; spray the victim with cool water from
a garden hose; sponge the person with cool water; or if the humidity is
low, wrap the victim in a cool, wet sheet and fan him or her vigorously.
Monitor body temperature, and continue cooling efforts until the body
temperature drops to 101-102°F. If emergency medical personnel are
delayed, call the hospital emergency room for further instructions. Do
not give the victim fluids to drink. Get medical assistance as soon as
possible. |
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Sometimes
a victim's muscles will begin to twitch uncontrollably as a result of
heat stroke. If this happens, keep the victim from injuring himself, but
do not place any object in the mouth and do not give fluids. If there
is vomiting, make sure the airway remains open by turning the victim on
his or her side.
Source, CDC. |
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