Heat stroke is a medical emergency, and Exceptional Emergency Center can treat this condition quickly at our centers in Harlingen, TX, and Fort Worth, TX. Any delay in treating heat stroke can lead to serious complications, such as damage to the kidneys, heart, or brain. If treatment is delayed, heat stroke can even kill you. Any time this condition is suspected, it’s vital to get to an emergency facility as quickly as possible to be evaluated by a trained medical professional or to call 911 for immediate assistance.
As its name suggests, heat stroke has to do with your body systems overheating, and it tends to happen more often in the summer months. This can be especially true of the heat in our state of Texas. That said, heat stroke can and does take place any time of year if the body gets hot enough. People of any age can be affected by this condition, although it is more common in those over 50 or in young athletes. People with certain medical conditions may also be at higher risk for heat stroke.
It’s important to know that heat exhaustion and heat stroke are not the same thing, although heat exhaustion can lead to heatstroke if it isn’t addressed. Both of these conditions are the body’s way of telling you it’s too hot. However, heat stroke can be deadly if left untreated.
Signs and symptoms of heat stroke
The signs of heat stroke can vary from person to person, but some of the things to keep an eye out for include:
- Headache
- Feeling dizzy and/or weak
- Cramps, nausea, or vomiting
- Fast heartbeat and/or breathing
- Disorientation
- Seizures and/or fainting
These are just some of the signs and symptoms that may be present. Unlike heat exhaustion, those suffering from heat stroke may actually be dry to the touch, rather than sweaty. A diagnosis of heat stroke is made if the core body temperature is 104 degrees Fahrenheit or higher. Diagnosis should be made by a medical professional.
While you’re waiting for medical help, try to cool the person off by loosening or removing clothing, moving them to a cooler location, and putting cool washcloths or ice packs on areas that have a large concentration of blood vessels, such as the neck, armpits, and groin. This will help prevent the condition from worsening while you’re waiting for treatment.
Heat stroke treatment
It cannot be overemphasized that emergency help should be summoned if heat stroke is suspected. The person should be taken to an emergency facility, such as Exceptional Emergency Center in Harlingen, TX, and Fort Worth, TX, for treatment right away.
Heat stroke treatment is best administered by a professional so that the body temperature can be monitored and any medical support needed can be given. We have helped many people stabilize after suffering from this condition, so don’t hesitate to come in or contact emergency services if you or someone you know needs help.
Contact us for help with heat stroke!