The level of mortality in those who suffer heatstroke, as did my wife, is said to be from 10 to 70 percent. Waiting two hours or more for medical treatment results in the most deaths.
Back to learning CPR: I was there and it came back to me so she was treated instantly and her breathing restored quickly. That was luck. I then neglected the important treatments that should have been started long before she reached the point of heatstroke. The reason: I did not recognize the clear signs of heat exhaustion and, after CPR, did not know to re-hydrate her and cool her body immediately. The local Mexican doctor prescribed re-hydration and, if he had been American, would have prescribed removal to an air-conditioned area, and keeping her body wet to help evaporative cooling. In many cases the problem is totally preventable: don't win the 28K marathon on the hottest day of summer, give the kids drinks, and force a time-out once in a while in the shade or the pool, make sure the sick and elderly are spending time in AC and not locked in hot apartments with the fear of crime in American cities.
When you see those people spraying water or offering drinks to runners, they aren't just making them happy. They are saving lives.
A very clear article on causes, symptoms, and treatment is provided by Medicine Plus from the National Library of Medicine and the National Institute of Health on Heat Emergencies. I seriously suggest going to the site, printing a copy, and sticking it on the refrigerator for the coming hot season. This article is not highly technical, is readable, and easily used in an emergency.
The following are common causes of heat emergencies:
- High temperatures or humidity
- Dehydration
- Prolonged or excessive exercise
- Excess clothing
- Alcohol use
- Medications, such as diuretics, neuroleptics, phenothiazines, and anticholinergics
- Cardiovascular disease
- Sweat gland dysfunction
More lists of symptoms of heat exhaustion and heatstroke follow along with first aid, things NOT to do, when to call 911, and ways to prevent the problem in the first place.
- Wear loose-fitting, lightweight clothing in hot weather.
- Rest frequently and seek shade when possible.
- Avoid exercise or strenuous physical acitivity outside during hot or humid weather.
- Drink plenty of fluids every day. Drink more fluids before, during, and after physical activity.
- Be especially careful to avoid overheating if you are taking drugs that impair heat regulation, or if you are overweight or elderly.
- Be careful of hot cars in the summer. Allow the car to cool off before getting in.
In the UK the National Health Service is concerned enough to provide a 24-hour direct number (0845 4647, 24 hours in UK) and an interactive site.
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