Heatstroke first aid: what to do while help is coming

Heatstroke is a medical emergency. Knowing the signs and the first steps can save a life during a hot El Niño season.

Danger signs in adults (Health Ministry). Confusion, disorientation, agitation or irritability; seizures or coma; hot, red and dry skin; a core body temperature of 40°C (104°F) or more; throbbing headache; dizziness or fainting; muscle weakness or cramps; nausea and vomiting; and a fast heartbeat or fast, shallow breathing.

Danger signs in children. Refusal to feed, excessive irritability, passing less urine, dry mouth with no tears or sunken eyes, lethargy, seizures, and bleeding from any site.

What to do. Call 108 or 102 immediately if someone has a high body temperature and is unconscious, confused, or has stopped sweating. While you wait, cool the person right away: move them to a cool place if you can, apply cold water to large areas of their skin or clothing, and fan them as much as possible.

If someone feels unwell in the heat. Move to a cool place and drink liquids; water is best. Get medical help and measure body temperature. The National Disaster Management Authority adds: loosen clothing, use a cool wet cloth, and give water or a rehydrating drink only if the person is conscious. Avoid alcohol, tea, coffee and aerated drinks.

Heat cramps. Rest at once in a cool place and drink oral rehydration solution. Get medical attention if cramps last more than one hour.

Join the El Niño help room on soshyal.com to ask questions and share what you see in your area.