Facts
- Sunstroke is a life-threatening condition which can cause permanent damage.
- This happens when the body fails to regulate body temperature.
- Sunstroke is also called heat stroke because it is caused by increasing body heat caused by sun exposure.
Causes of Injury
- Excessive or prolonged exertion in a hot environment
- Inadequate fluid intake
- Body's normal mechanism for temperature control is lost.
Prevention
- See
Planning/Packing Guide
Symptoms
- Severe headache
- Rapid, shallow breathing
- Weak rapid pulse
- Cessation of sweating
- Erratic behavior, irritability, confusion
- Exhaustion
- Light-headedness
- Dry, red, hot skin
- Fever
- Blue lips & nails
- Seizures
- Fainting / unconsciousness / coma
First Aid
- Same as for heat exhaustion
- Seek medical attention immediately.
- Elevate the legs.
- Do NOT give aspirin, pain killers, salt tablets, alcohol or caffeine.
- Do NOT give liquids if vomiting or losing consciousness.
Related Links
- Heatstroke: First Aid http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/first-aid-heatstroke/FA00019