Heatstroke – Diagnosis and Treatment
Diagnosis
Doctors review symptoms and medical history to decide if someone has heatstroke or another heat-related illness. They check for warning signs like a high body temperature and confusion.
They also look for changes in mental status, dizziness, nausea, and changes in urine color.
Common Signs of Heat-Related Illness:
- Core body temperature above 104ยฐF (40ยฐC)
- Hot, dry, or damp skin
- Rapid heartbeat
- Confusion or strange behavior
- Nausea or vomiting
Doctors use several tests and checks to confirm heatstroke:
| Test | Why It’s Done |
|---|---|
| Rectal temperature | Accurately measures your core body temperature. |
| Blood tests | Evaluates saline levels, gas concentrations, and potential organ damage. |
| Urine tests | Observes signs of kidney stress and dehydration. |
| Muscle damage tests | Looks for muscle breakdown (rhabdomyolysis). |
| Imaging (X-ray, etc.) | Examines internal organs for signs of injury. |
These tests help doctors decide if someone needs fast treatment for serious problems like heatstroke or organ damage. Lab tests can also rule out other conditions such as sepsis or drug effects.
Treatment
Doctors aim to lower the bodyโs temperature quickly and safely. They often use cold water immersion by placing the person in a bath of cold or ice water. This method cools the body fast and helps prevent organ injury.
If a cold water bath is not available, doctors may use evaporative cooling. They mist the skin with cool water and fan warm air over the body to help water evaporate and lower temperature.
Cooling blankets and ice packs can also help. Doctors place ice packs on areas like the armpits, groin, back, and neck to cool the blood as it circulates.
To control shivering, doctors may give medicines such as benzodiazepines. Stopping shivering helps the body cool down faster.
Hydration is important. Doctors give fluids and electrolytes by mouth or through an IV to help the body recover.
| Cooling Techniques | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Cold water immersion | Rapidly lowers core body temperature. |
| Evaporative cooling | Cools skin by evaporation. |
| Cooling blankets | Reduces skin and blood temperature. |
| Ice packs | Targets major blood vessels for cooling. |
Everyday Strategies and At-Home Approaches
Managing heat-related conditions like heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat syncope is important, especially during periods of extreme heat or high humidity. Quick action helps lower body temperature and reduces the risk of heatstroke.
Athletes, outdoor workers, and young athletes face greater risk during hot weather or intense physical activities.
Helpful Actions:
- Seek Shelter: Move to a cool location. Choose shaded areas, air-conditioned buildings like malls or public libraries, or workplaces with fans.
- Cool the Body: Apply damp washcloths or wet towels to the skin. Spray cool water on the skin and use a fan to help with evaporation and cooling.
- Take Cooling Showers: Take a cool shower or bath. If you have no indoor options, dunk in a pond or stream.
- Hydrate: Drink water or sports drinks to replace fluids and salts lost through sweat. This is especially important for people working outdoors or exercising in high temperatures.
- Avoid Certain Drinks: Avoid sugary drinks and alcohol. These drinks can make dehydration or cramps worse.
Tips for Special Groups:
| Group | Extra Care Needed |
|---|---|
| Outdoor laborers | Take frequent breaks in the shade. |
| Athletes | Allow for acclimatization to heat. |
| Young athletes | Monitor more closely for symptoms. |
Other Considerations:
Remove excess clothing, such as jackets or hats, to help heat escape. If someone feels faint or shows signs of heat rash, lay them down in a cool place and raise their legs slightly.
If someone shows symptoms of heatstroke, such as confusion or fainting, call for emergency help. Only fast medical treatment can help in severe cases.
