Heatstroke and Cold Compresses

As summer approaches and we brace ourselves for another round of heatwaves, the potential for developing heatstroke increases. Read on to learn more about this serious heat injury and what you can do to prevent it.

What is heatstroke?

Heatstroke is a serious medical condition that requires emergency treatment. Typically, heatstroke happens from prolonged exposure to or physical exertion in high temperatures combined with dehydration. The most severe form of heat injury, heatstroke occurs when your body’s temperature reaches 40˚ C (104˚ F) or higher. Basically, it is a failure of your body’s temperature control system and, if left untreated, can damage the brain, kidneys, heart, and muscles. Delaying treatment can result in complications and in some cases even death.

If you believe someone is suffering from heatstroke, call 911 immediately or take them to the emergency room.

What are the symptoms of heatstroke?

The most common symptoms of heatstroke include:

• A core body temperature of 40˚ C (104˚ F) or higher
• A splitting headache
• Feeling dizzy and light-headed
• Skin that feels hot and dry to the touch
• Lack of sweating despite the heat
• Nausea and vomiting
• Rapid and shallow breathing
• Racing heart rate
• Flushed or red skin
• Confusion, disorientation, or staggering
• Fainting
• Seizures

What are some of the risk factors of heatstroke?

Heatstroke can happen to anyone, but there are some factors that put you at greater risk. These include:

• Age: young children and older adults are more prone to developing heatstroke as their central nervous systems are less able to cope with extreme heat.
• Health conditions: some health conditions may increase your likelihood of developing heatstroke. These include obesity or being underweight, diabetes, high blood pressure, heart, lung, or kidney disease, alcoholism, sunburn, sickle cell trait, and others.
• Medications: some medications affect hydration and your ability to cope with the heat. These include blood pressure medication, diuretics, antidepressants, and antipsychotics. Additionally, illegal drugs such as cocaine and amphetamines can also put you at greater risk.

Cold compresses and other first-aid treatments for heatstroke

As mentioned previously, heatstroke is a serious condition that requires emergency medical care. While waiting for the paramedics to arrive, administer first aid to help cool the person down.

• Take them to an air-conditioned place or a shady area.
• Remove all unnecessary clothing such as socks, jackets, sweaters, and so on.
• Fan them and wet their skin with a cold wet sponge or damp cloth.
• Apply cold packs or cold compresses such as a Magic Bag to their armpits, neck, back, and groin.
• Immerse the person in a shower or tub of cool water.

Speak with emergency services for additional instructions on what to do while you wait for help to arrive.

How to prevent heatstroke

During heatwaves or if the heat index is high, stay indoors in an air-conditioned place. If you must go outside:

• Wear loose-fitting, lightweight, light-colored clothing and a wide-brimmed hat;
• Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated;
• Wear sunscreen with a minimum 30 SPF and reapply frequently;
• Never leave anyone—child, adult, or pet (yes even dogs can get heatstroke)—in a parked car, even if you park in the shade and leave the windows down;
• Be extra cautious if you take certain medications or have certain medical conditions and be on the lookout for any signs of heatstroke so you can act quickly;
• Limit exercise or outdoor activities to cooler times of the day or reschedule them.

With summer upon us, many of us cannot wait to spend time in the great outdoors. Just remember, heatstroke can happen to anyone and is a potentially life-threatening condition so take extra care during periods of intense heat. And remember Magic Bag cold compresses are effective ways to cool down and can be used as a first-aid response to heatstroke while you wait for the paramedics to arrive. Be prepared this summer and get your Magic Bag today!