Heat Exhaustion and Heat Stroke Treatment

Self-Care at Home

Home care is appropriate for mild forms of heat exhaustion. Heat stroke is a medical emergency, and an ambulance should be called immediately.

• For mild cases of heat exhaustion
  
  
  • Rest in a cool, shaded area.
    
    
  • Give cool fluids such as water or sports drinks (that will replace the salt that has been lost). Salty snacks are appropriate as tolerated.
    
    
  • Loosen or remove clothing.
    
    
  • Apply cool water to skin.
    
    
  • Do not use an alcohol rub.
    
    
  • Do not give any beverages containing alcohol or caffeine.
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• Heat stroke (do not attempt to treat a case of heat stroke at home, but you can help while waiting for medical assistance to arrive.)
  
  
  • Call 911 immediately
    
    
  • Move the person to a cooler environment, or place him or her in a cool bath of water (as long as he or she is conscious and can be attended continuously).
    
    
  • Alternatively, moisten the skin with lukewarm water and use a fan to blow cool air across the skin.
    
    
  • Give cool beverages by mouth only if the person has a normal mental state and can tolerate it.