How to Manage and Treat Heat Stroke
It would help to know that not everyone feeling exhaustion in the heat is suffering from heat stroke. If the symptoms are not life-threatening, you will be moved to a room with a low temperature. If the symptoms improve after 30 minutes, your health care provider will advise you to stay away from heat. In severe cases, you may require urgent medical treatment. Early treatment is important. Doctors recommend the following steps for people who are experiencing symptoms of heat stroke:
- Monitor the ABCs (airway, breathing, and circulation) for any signs of discomfort. Your doctor may recommend mechanical ventilation if you cannot breathe properly. If you have an underlying respiratory condition, you may experience difficulties clearing your airway.
- Administer oxygen if you have breathing problems or a fast heart rate.
- Stay away from heat and cool your body temperature to anything lower than 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit, using air conditioning, fans, or cool compresses.
- Take water or IV fluids [6].