Signs of shock (ex. bluish lips and fingernails, confusion) Loss of consciousness A temperature over 102F (38. 9C) Rapid breathing and/or pulse Weak heartbeat, lethargy, nausea, vomiting, and dark urine In some cases, they may be collapsed, agitated or even in cardiac arrest, so take care and start CPR if necessary Seizures. If the person is having seizures, clear the area for the patient’s safety. If you can, place a pillow under his head so it does not bang on the ground during the convulsions. [3] X Research source If milder symptoms persist for an extended time (longer than an hour), make the call. [4] X Trustworthy Source MedlinePlus Collection of medical information sourced from the US National Library of Medicine Go to source
Don’t give the person anything by mouth if he is vomiting or unconscious. Anything that enters the person’s mouth could become a choking hazard.
Help the person remove any extra clothing (hat, shoes, socks) to aid in the cooling process. Do not rub the person’s body with alcohol. This is an old wives’ tale. Alcohol cools the body too quickly, which can result in a dangerous temperature fluctuation. Rub the person’s body with cool water, never alcohol. [7] X Research source
Massage the person’s muscles. Massage gently. Your goal is to increase the circulation in the muscles. Muscle cramps are one of the early symptoms of sunstroke. Usually the calf areas are most affected. [10] X Research source
If the person does faint, turn him onto his left side with his right leg bent for stabilization. This position is called the recovery position. [11] X Research source Check the person’s mouth for vomit, so they do not choke. The left side is the best side for blood flow because our hearts are on that side.
Certain medications also put people at greater risk. These include beta blockers, diuretics, and some medicines used to treat depression, psychosis, or ADHD.
Be aware of the heat island effect. The heat island effect happens when the rural areas are cooler than the city areas. Those in the crowded city usually have increased temperatures ranging from 1. 8–5. 4 °F (−20 – −10 °C) higher than in rural areas. At nighttime, the difference can be up to 22 °F (−5. 6 °C). It can happen in communities because of air pollution, greenhouse gases, water quality, air conditioning costs and energy consumption. Wear light clothing appropriate for the weather.
One of the most unfortunate causes of sunstroke is sitting in a hot car. Do not sit in a hot car. And do not leave children alone in the car, even for a few minutes. If you decide to exercise, avoid the peak sun hours from 11:00am to 3:00 pm.
Don’t drink caffeine. This will tell the body to become stimulated when what it needs to do is calm down. Though black coffee is 95% water, the effect of caffeine on the body is harmful when the person has signs of sunstroke. The heart will beat harder and faster. [15] X Research source
