Heatstroke is the most serious of the heat-related conditions typically known as heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke. Heatstroke is a critical condition requiring immediate medical attention. According to WebMD, if it is not treated in time, it can damage the brain, heart, kidneys' and muscles. In a short time, heat stroke will lead to death.
Heat stroke is contrasted from the serious but not usually fatal heat exhaustion in a couple of ways. First, heat exhaustion is the stage where the body is fighting to cool itself. The body is typically covered in sweat and the skin is cool and clammy since the body has pulled the blood away from the skin in order to cool it off. During heat stroke, the …show more content…
Ice packs, an ice bath, cool water, anything that will rapidly drop the temperature. Above all, emergency personnel should be called immediately.
The best treatment for heat stroke, however, is prevention.
Drink lots of water and keep hydrated during hot and humid weather. The water will keep the body cooled off and allow the body to sweat and regulate its temperature. In times of excessive sweating, a sports drink or other form of sodium intake will help the body retain water.
To the best of your ability, avoid the heat of the day. The sun's rays are usually the strongest from 10am to 3pm. At home care personnel should do their best to plan indoor activities for these times. If seniors are to be out of doors in high heat and humidity, try to choose locations where shade is plentiful.
Loose fitting and lightweight clothing helps the body sweat properly and regulate heat. Clothing that is lighter in color will also reflect the sun's rays and not retain heat. At home care personnel can help your senior loved one choose the right clothing if they will be in an environment with high heat. Note: they may also want to bring a light sweater or cotton wrap along if they will be going in and out of air- conditioned