Heatstroke

Heatstroke is triggered by an excessive exposure to heat, resulting in an increased body temperature and dehydration. It is a variant of hyperthermia. The condition is characterized by an increased body temperature, an absence of sweat with hot red or blushing dry skin, increased pulse, impaired breathing, vertigo, headache, abnormal behaviour, hallucinations, confusion, agitation, disorientation, seizure, and coma. Heatstroke must be treated as a medical emergency. In this regard the patient must be cooled down immediately. Medical attention must be sought straight away. Until medical attention is available, the patient must be placed in a cool area, undressed, and sprayed with cool water. Ice packs may be applied to the armpits and groin in order to cool down the patient.

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