Heat Stroke First Aid: Crucial Skills for Everyone

In high temperature environments, it is difficult to avoid becoming sunburned if one must go outside. Sunburns can easily lead to fainting. If emergency medical assistance is not administered promptly, the individual's life may be endangered.

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Heatstroke is a condition caused by prolonged exposure to the sun or high temperatures, particularly during midday hours.

Symptoms of heatstroke typically include sweating, flushed face, and in some cases, stomach pain and vomiting. In severe cases, patients may experience dizziness, rapid pulse, and high body temperature (which can reach over 40 degrees Celsius). If left untreated, heatstroke can lead to coma, seizures, and even death. The elderly and young children are at a greater risk for heatstroke due to their weaker immune systems.

According to Dr. Dang Hoang Diep of the Emergency Department at the National Hospital of Tropical Diseases, heatstroke is a dangerous condition but can be prevented.

– During the summer months, it is important to stay informed about weather forecasts through newspapers and television news each day.

– When going outside in hot weather, cover your body by wearing loose, light-colored clothing, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunscreen.

During these times, high temperatures can easily lead to heatstroke and heat exhaustion.

– Drink plenty of fluids when it is hot outside or when engaging in strenuous activity in the sun. Drink water regularly, even if you do not feel thirsty. You can drink water with a little bit of salt or an oral rehydration solution, fruit juice, and avoid carbonated soft drinks and energy drinks.

– Avoid working outside for extended periods or working in hot environments, and avoid excessive physical activity. Take regular breaks every 45 minutes to an hour of continuous work in hot conditions, and rest in a cool place for 10-15 minutes.

– Always wear appropriate sun and heat protection gear when working or doing activities outside, such as work coveralls, hard hats, wide-brimmed hats, and sunglasses.


Illustration of symptoms when experiencing heatstroke and heat exhaustion.

– Create a cool and well-ventilated environment in the workplace, especially in factories, warehouses, and furnaces, which is very important in preventing heatstroke and heat exhaustion.

– When returning from being in the sun, your body will be sweating and your core temperature will be high. Taking a shower immediately can cause a sudden change in body temperature, which is dangerous and can lead to heatstroke.

– During the hot summer months, drink plenty of fluids, eat cooling foods, and consume fruits and vegetables that are rich in potassium, such as spinach, jute, gotu kola, and tomatoes. Wear loose, airy clothing that allows for easy sweating.

– Never leave children or anyone in a parked car with the engine off, even for a short period of time, as the temperature inside a car can rise more than 11 degrees Celsius in just 10 minutes.


Take regular breaks every 45 minutes to an hour of continuous work in hot conditions, and rest in a cool place for 10-15 minutes.

In the event that you encounter someone experiencing heatstroke or heat exhaustion, Dr. Diep emphasizes that the first hour after the onset of severe heatstroke or heat exhaustion is known as the “golden hour” for emergency care. Therefore, when providing first aid for heatstroke or heat exhaustion, it is crucial to focus on initial care at the scene.

If you come across someone with heatstroke or heat exhaustion, follow these steps immediately:

1. Move the person to a cool, well-ventilated area (shade, air-conditioned car, or cool room), and call for help, especially emergency services.

2. Clear their airway, perform CPR, and give chest compressions if the person is unconscious and has no pulse.

3. Implement cooling measures immediately to lower their body temperature.

– Measure their body temperature (if a thermometer is available).

– Remove their clothing and apply lukewarm water to their body, then use a fan to increase evaporation (the person should lie on their side or be supported in a semi-sitting position so that their skin is exposed to as much air as possible).


Illustration of what to do when encountering someone experiencing heatstroke or heat exhaustion.

4. Apply cold towels or ice packs to their armpits, groin, and neck.

5. Give them plenty of fluids or an electrolyte solution if they are conscious and able to drink.

6. Transport the person in an air-conditioned vehicle or with the windows open. Continue cooling the person during transport.

 

Source: Dân việt

Frequently asked questions

The elderly and young children are particularly susceptible to heatstroke due to their weaker immune systems.

Dr. Dang Hoang Diep of the National Hospital of Tropical Diseases’ Emergency Department recommends staying informed about weather forecasts during summer. When outdoors in hot weather, cover up with loose, light-colored clothing, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunscreen. Stay hydrated with plenty of fluids, especially water, even if you don’t feel thirsty. Avoid working or engaging in strenuous activity outdoors for extended periods, and take regular breaks in a cool place.

Always wear appropriate sun and heat protection, including work coveralls, hard hats, wide-brimmed hats, and sunglasses.

Ensure your workplace is cool and well-ventilated, especially in factories, warehouses, and near furnaces. This is crucial in preventing heatstroke.

Avoid taking an immediate shower, as it can cause a dangerous drop in body temperature. Instead, rest in a cool place and rehydrate.

Drink plenty of fluids and eat cooling foods. Consume fruits and vegetables rich in potassium, such as spinach, jute, gotu kola, and tomatoes. Wear loose, airy clothing to facilitate sweating.

Never leave anyone, especially children, in a parked car with the engine off, as the temperature inside can rise by more than 11 degrees Celsius in just 10 minutes, increasing the risk of heatstroke.

The first hour after the onset of heatstroke is critical. Move the person to a cool, well-ventilated area and call for emergency services. If they are unconscious and have no pulse, clear their airway, perform CPR, and apply cooling measures to lower their body temperature. Use lukewarm water and a fan to increase evaporation.

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