Heat stroke is characterized as a heat-related illness that occurs once the body temperature of the individual quickly increases and goes beyond 104 degrees F. Individuals who develop any of the after effects of heat stroke require immediate medical attention in order to avoid the dangerous complications from occurring.
Once you suspect that an individual is suffering from a heat stroke, it is important to provide the appropriate measures to prevent the complications from developing. Initially, you have to transfer or move the individual to cool or shaded place and provide a many fluids as possible. You can take part in first aid training today so that you know what to do in case a heat stroke is suspected.
http://youtu.be/gwAAC9h4M6s
Dehydration
Once the body temperature of the individual rises quickly, the normal cooling response of the body which is sweating could no longer function properly. As a result, the individual could no longer control the body temperature due to the heat stroke. An elevated body temperature can eventually deplete the fluid resources in the body. Once this occurs, the individual will develop dehydration as one of the after effects of heat stroke. The indications of dehydration include dizziness, increased thirst, headache and loss of appetite. If the fluid levels are not restored in a timely manner, dehydration can be fatal.
Increased breathing and heart rate
The elevated body temperature due to heat stroke can lead to heart and breathing problems. After a heat stroke, the individual has a rapid pulse and breathing rate. Take note that these after effects of heat stroke can be accompanied by severe headache, weakness, dizziness, vomiting and muscle cramps. In some individuals, they can also suffer from difficulty breathing which is one of the after effects of heat stroke that entails immediate medical care.
Organ or brain damage
Once the body could no longer control the internal temperature due to heat stroke, the organs and tissues can end up overheated. The high level of heat can cause damage and destroy the cells in the body that can cause organ damage and failure. If medical treatment is not provided right away, those who are experiencing heat stroke can develop lasting brain or organ damage as an after effect that can lead to permanent physical or mental disabilities.
Loss of consciousness, coma and death
Excessive heat can overwhelm the body. If this occurs, the body will start to shut down. Individuals who experience heat stroke can appear confused and can eventually lose consciousness. In case the body is not cooled down rapidly after a heat stroke, the individual can progress into a state of coma. Extensive exposure to elevated temperatures after a heat stroke can cause the body to shut down completely, resulting to death. With this in mind, once an individual is suffering from heat stroke, it is vital to provide the appropriate first aid care.