How to relieve heatstroke, and what is the fastest method?
Generally speaking, there is no such thing as how to relieve heatstroke and what the fastest method is. After heatstroke occurs, relief can be achieved by changing the environment, cooling measures, hydration, medication, and timely medical treatment. The specific approaches are as follows:
1. Change the Environment
Quickly move the person suffering from heatstroke to a cool, well-ventilated area or an air-conditioned room, such as a corridor or under the shade of trees. Keep them away from heat sources, lay them down flat, unbutton their upper clothing to help dissipate heat, lower body temperature, and alleviate symptoms of heatstroke.
2. Cooling Measures
Place wet towels or ice packs on the forehead, neck, armpits, groin, and other areas with rich blood vessels to help remove body heat through evaporation and reduce surface body temperature. Wiping the whole body with lukewarm water can also help promote heat dissipation.
3. Hydration
If the person with heatstroke is conscious, give them small amounts of lightly salted water or herbal remedies such as Huoxiang Zhengqi Water (Agastache fortunei medicinal liquid) or Shidi Shui (drops of herbal medicine) to relieve heat. Lightly salted water helps replenish fluids and electrolytes lost through sweating, while Huoxiang Zhengqi Water and Shidi Shui can help resolve exterior symptoms and dampness, alleviating discomfort caused by heatstroke.
4. Medication
Depending on the severity of the heatstroke, appropriate medications can be used for treatment. As directed by a physician, oral medications such as Huoxiang Zhengqi Water, Huoxiang Zhengqi Liquid, or Huoxiang Zhengqi Soft Capsules can be administered for symptom relief. Additionally, cooling ointments such as cooling oil or essential balm can be applied to the forehead and temples for relief.
5. Seek Medical Attention Promptly
If the symptoms of heatstroke are severe—for example, high fever, convulsions, or unconsciousness—while implementing the above first-aid measures, call emergency services (120) immediately and transport the person to a hospital for professional treatments such as controlled cooling and fluid replacement.
Heatstroke poses significant health risks. In daily life, it is recommended to take preventive measures, such as minimizing outdoor activities during high-temperature weather, taking protective measures when going outside, and replenishing fluids timely.