This is caused by a very high environmental temperature or a feverish illness, such
as malaria, that leads to a greatly raised body temperature. It develops
when the body can no longer control its temperature by sweating and can occur
quite suddenly.
It can develop in people of any age who have been exposed to heat and high humidity
for too long and who are not accustomed to them. It can also be caused by a prolonged
confinement in a hot atmosphere.
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SYMPTOMS
- Casualty complains of headache, dizziness and felling hot
- casualty becomes restless
- Unconsciousness may develop rapidly and may
become very deep.
- Casualty is hot with temperature of 40 deg Celcius or more and will
look flushed.
- Pulse is full and bounding; breathing may be noisy
AIM
Reduce the casualty's temperature as quickly as possible and seek medical aid.
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TREATMENT
1. Move the casualty to a cool environment and remove her clothing
2. If she is conscious, place her in a half sitting position with
her head and shoulders supported
IF she is unconscious, open her airway and check breathing.
Complete ABC od Resuscitation if necessary and place her in
the Recovery Position.
3. Wrap her in a cold, wet sheet and keep it wet. Direct currents of
air onto her by fanning her or by means of an electric fan
until her temperature drops to 38 deg celcius.
IF her temperature falls, cover her with a dry sheet.
4. Seek medical help immediately
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