Heatstroke and Heat Exhaustion

Heatstroke and heat exhaustion!

With the very hot weather we are currently experiencing, we need to be aware of the dangers for the elderly and vulnerable. We need to take measures to ensure that they keep cool and stay hydrated, and also be alert to the risks of Heatstroke.

Heatstroke can occur when the body’s thermo-regulation mechanism fails. This leads to a medical emergency, with symptoms of confusion; disorientation; convulsions; unconsciousness; hot dry skin; and core body temperature exceeding 40ºC. If you or someone else has signs of heatstroke, including shortness of breath, a fit, a loss of consciousness, you should call 999.

While waiting for the ambulance:

Take the person’s temperature and try to cool them down as quickly as possible. (If possible, move them somewhere cooler; give them a cool shower; sprinkle them with water or wrap them in a damp sheet; use a fan)

Give them fluids, if they are conscious.

DO NOT give aspirin or paracetamol

Heat exhaustion is more common than heatstroke and occurs as a result of dehydration or sodium depletion, with non-specific features of malaise, vomiting and circulatory collapse, and is present when the core temperature is between 37ºC and 40ºC. Left untreated, heat exhaustion may evolve into heatstroke. Heat exhaustion is not usually serious if you can cool down within 30 minutes. If it turns into heatstroke, it needs to be treated as an emergency!

The NHS website has some helpful guidance on the distinction between heat exhaustion and heatstroke. The NHS also give some helpful clarity on the emergency action you should take-whether to ring 999 or 111 depending on the severity of the symptoms