Heat stroke occurs when the body is not able to cool itself to a safe temperature. It usually happens when a person is exposed for too long to the sun, without proper shade, cooling and hydration.

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The very young and the very old are most sensitive to heat and most likely to develop heat stroke, as are people who work outside and those taking certain medications, the University of Maryland Medical Centre says.

Heat stroke is typically characterised by flushed, hot and dry skin. Other symptoms can include dizziness, headache, confusion, fatigue, seizure, and loss of consciousness.

Someone with heat stroke should receive professional medical attention. A heat stroke victim should be brought inside out of the sun and cooled down immediately. The skin should be wiped down with cool water and fanned to bring the body temperature down. Ice packs should be applied to the groin and armpits, and the patient should rest in a cool place with the feet slightly elevated.

Doctors often treat heat stroke victims with intravenous fluids. Bed rest is usually recommended. – (HealthDayNews)

June 2006
 

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