How are heat-related illnesses treated?
Heat stroke should be treated like a true emergency. If normal temperature is not promptly restored, permanent disability or even death may occur. Anyone with knowledge about heat stroke can be an instrumental part of saving a victim’s life. First, call 911. Next, move the person to a cool place and remove heavy clothing. Immediately cool the person using ice, wet towels or sheets, and fan him/her. Keep cloths wet with cool water. If you have ice, place ice packs at areas with abundant blood supply like the neck, armpits and groin. Continue cooling the person until their body temperature drops to 102F. Heat exhaustion should be treated similarly. Move the person to a cool place, keep them lying down with legs up. You can cool the victim by applying cold packs or wet towels or cloths, and fanning them. Give the person cold water if they are conscious. If no improvement is found within 30 minutes, seek medical attention. Back to the top Ask the Doctor – Bruce R. Culp, MD Q: I’ve been tak
