What can be used to wipe the body for cooling down a patient with heatstroke?
Nov 21, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Shuwen
Introduction
To cool down a patient with heatstroke, it is generally recommended to wipe the body with lukewarm water or alcohol. If necessary, medications may be taken orally under medical supervision. Heatstroke is usually caused by environmental factors and can be managed by wiping areas such as the forehead and neck with lukewarm water, or using alcohol to help dissipate body heat. If these methods are ineffective, medications such as Shidi Shui or Huoxiang Zhengqi Shui may be used for treatment.
When cooling down a patient with heatstroke, it is generally recommended to wipe the body with lukewarm water or alcohol. If necessary, oral medication should be taken under medical supervision.
1. Wiping the body with lukewarm water
Heatstroke is usually caused by environmental factors. In hot seasons, staying in enclosed spaces can impair the body's ability to dissipate heat, leading to excessive internal heat accumulation. This may result in symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and elevated body temperature. Cooling the body by wiping with lukewarm water can help. Using a damp towel to wipe areas such as the forehead, neck, palms, and soles promotes heat dissipation and increases physical comfort.
2. Wiping the body with alcohol
Alcohol wipes can also be used to reduce body temperature in heatstroke patients. Alcohol should be diluted with water before application. Due to its high volatility, alcohol facilitates rapid evaporation of heat from the skin surface, thus achieving quick cooling effects.
3. Oral medication
In some cases, oral medications are necessary for treating heatstroke. Under a doctor’s guidance, medications such as Shidi Shui (Ten Drops Water) or Huoxiang Zhengqi San may be taken. These medicines help strengthen the spleen, eliminate dampness, and relieve summer-heat syndromes.
