b. As the patient's condition worsens, these signs/symptoms occur:
(1) Cyanosis. A sign of cyanosis is a bluish discoloration especially of the
skin and mucous membranes due to excessive concentration of reduced hemoglobin in
the blood.
(2)
Peripheral vascular collapse.
(3)
Rapid pulse.
(4)
Hypotension.
(5) Other symptoms. These symptoms may occur: pulmonary edema,
incontinence, vomiting, hemorrhagic tendencies, disturbance of muscle tone,
myocardial necrosis, meningismus, opisthotonos, jaundice, albuminuria,
thrombocytopenia, and prolongation of the prothrombin time.
(6)
Renal failure with rapidly developing hyperkalemia is not uncommon.
c. Death may ensue very rapidly, but if the patient survives until the second day,
the person usually recovers.
(1) For several days, rectal temperature of 102 - 103F (39 - 40C) may
persist. During these days, mental disturbances, excitement, and delirium may continue
or recur.
(2)
Headache may persist for several weeks after the attack.
d. In the first few days after the temperature has been reduced from a critical
level, severe relapses may occur.
(1)
Observe the patient carefully during this period.
(2)
Take and record the patient's rectal temperature frequently.
(3)
At the first indication of a relapse, start treatment described in paragraph
4-19d again.
4-25. TREATMENT
Heatstroke is treated by cooling the casualty's body. If the casualty is
unconscious, be sure to check his breathing and heartbeat. Open his airway and
administer rescue breathing or CPR if needed.
a. Immediate Cooling. Immerse the casualty in cool water or pour cool water
onto the casualty and fan him.
MD0587
4-15