Heat Exhaustion and Heat Stroke First Aid

Heat Exhaustion and Heat Stroke, what’s the difference?
Heat Exhaustion is the body’s response to dehydration, most commonly caused by working or exercising in hot conditions. It can usually be treated by a First Aider, but if left untreated it can rapidly develop into life threatening Heat Stroke(in which case call for an ambulance immediately).
Heat Stroke is when the temperature control in the brain fails, the body is unable to cool down and the causalities core temperature can reach very dangerous levels within 10 to 15 minutes. This can be caused by prolonged exposure to high temperatures or fevers.
Recognising Heat Exhaustion

• Pale, sweaty skin.
• Feeling sick, loss of appetite or vomiting.
• Fast shallow breathing and a fast weak pulse.
• Cramps in the abdomen, arms or legs.
• Headache, dizziness and confusion.

Treating Heat Exhaustion

• Take the casualty to a cool place.
• Remove excessive clothing, lie them down and raise their legs.
• Give them plenty of water (and/or isotonic drinks) to re-hydrate them.
• Get some medical advice by calling 111 even if the casualty recovers quickly.
• If they start to become less responsive call 999, role the casualty on to their side (the recovery position) and monitor their breathing.
• If they show signs of Heat Stroke treat as shown below.

Recognising Heat Stroke

• Flushed, hot, dry skin but not sweating.
• Throbbing headache.
• Dizziness, fainting, confusion or restlessness.
• Feeling sick or being sick.
• Possibility of loss of consciousness or seizures.

Treating Heat Stroke

• Move the casualty to a cool place.
• Call 999 for an ambulance.
• Cool the casualty rapidly however you can. For example,
  • Remove outer clothing and wrap in cold wet sheet, keeping it cold and wet until the casualties temperature falls to a normal level.
  • Sponging the casualty with cool water.
  • Fanning the casualty.
  • If they are conscious enough to do so placing them in a cool shower.
  • Showering the casualty with cool water from a garden hose.