First Aid 6

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EMERGENCIES CAUSED BY HEAT

HEAT CRAMPS

In hot weather people who work hard and sweat a lot sometimes get painful cramps in their legs, arms, or stomach. These occur because the body lacks salt.

Treatment: Put a teaspoon of salt in a liter of boiled water and drink it.

HEAT EXHAUSTION

Signs: A person who works and sweats a lot in hot weather may become very pale and weak and perhaps feel faint. The skin is cool and moist. The pulse is rapid and weak.

Treatment: Have the person lie down in a cool place, raise his feet, and rub his legs. Give him salt water to drink: 1 teaspoon of salt in a liter of water. (Give nothing by mouth while the person is unconscious.)

HEAT STROKE

Heat stroke is not common, but is very dangerous. It occurs especially in older people and alcoholics during hot weather.

Signs: The skin is very hot, and dry. Not even the armpits are moist. The person has a very high fever, sometimes more than 42°C. Often he is unconscious.

Treatment: The body temperature must be lowered immediately. Put the person in shades. Soak him with cold water (ice water if possible) and fan him. Continue until the fever drops. Seek medical help.

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