To treat heat stroke, which is a medical emergency, immediate and effective cooling of the body is critical to prevent or reduce damage to the brain and vital organs. Key treatment steps include:
- Call emergency services immediately for professional medical help as heat stroke requires urgent care
- Rapidly cool the person by immersion in cold or ice water, which is the most effective method to quickly lower core body temperature
- If cold water immersion is not possible, use evaporation cooling by misting the skin with cool water and fanning the person to promote evaporation and cooling
- Apply ice packs to key areas such as the neck, armpits, groin, back, and chest to help lower temperature
- Remove excess clothing and move the person to a cool or shaded environment
- If the person is conscious, offer cool water or electrolyte drinks to rehydrate, but do not give fluids if they are unconscious or unable to swallow safely
- Monitor for shivering; if it occurs, medical professionals may administer muscle relaxants because shivering raises body temperature and counteracts cooling efforts
- In hospital, healthcare providers will continue cooling and monitor for complications such as organ damage, providing supportive care as needed
- If the person is unconscious, place them in the recovery position and be prepared to perform CPR if breathing stops
Home treatment alone is insufficient for heat stroke; prompt professional medical intervention is essential
. For less severe heat-related illness like heat exhaustion, moving to a cool place, removing excess clothing, cooling the skin, and rehydrating with water or sports drinks can help prevent progression to heat stroke
. In summary, the cornerstone of heat stroke treatment is rapid and effective cooling combined with emergency medical care to prevent serious complications or death