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May 23, 2013
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Heat Exhaustion and Heat Stroke (cont.)

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Heat Exhaustion and Heat Stroke Treatment

Heat Exhaustion and Heat Stroke Self-Care at Home

Home care is appropriate only 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

  • Stop physical activity
  • Rest in a cool, shaded area.
  • Give cool fluids such as water or sports drinks for dehydration (that will replace the salt and electrolytes that have 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.

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 (not cold) bath of water (as long as the person 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.

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Heat Exhaustion And Heat Stroke - Difference

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How did the doctor distinguish between heat exhaustion and heat stroke?

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Read What Your Physician is Reading on Medscape

Heat Exhaustion and Heatstroke »

Heat illness is a major cause of preventable morbidity worldwide, especially in regions characterized by high ambient temperatures.

Read More on Medscape Reference »


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