What to do when heatstroke occurs

Nov 24, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Wang Lei

Introduction

In general, the main responses to heatstroke include moving the affected person to a cool place, applying physical cooling measures, replenishing fluids and electrolytes, loosening clothing, and administering medication promptly. If any discomfort symptoms occur, it is recommended to seek timely medical treatment at a正规 hospital. Elderly individuals, children, and patients with chronic diseases are prone to severe complications after heatstroke and require special attention. Immediate medical intervention is necessary if symptoms such as unconsciousness, seizures, or decreased blood pressure occur.

Generally, the main measures for dealing with heatstroke include moving to a cool place, physical cooling, replenishing water and electrolytes, loosening clothing, and timely medication. If discomfort symptoms occur, it is recommended to seek prompt medical treatment at a正规 hospital. Specific analysis is as follows:

1. Move to a Cool Place

The core of heatstroke is a disruption in body temperature regulation; continued exposure to high temperatures can worsen the condition. Quickly moving to a shady, well-ventilated area such as under a tree or indoors reduces further heat absorption and creates conditions for the body to dissipate heat, preventing symptom progression.

2. Physical Cooling

Wipe areas rich in blood vessels—such as the forehead, armpits, and groin—with wet towels, or use a fan to blow air. This promotes evaporation from the skin surface, effectively removing body heat and rapidly lowering body temperature to reduce tissue damage caused by hyperthermia.

3. Replenish Water and Electrolytes

Excessive sweating during heatstroke leads to significant loss of fluids and electrolytes, increasing the risk of dehydration and metabolic imbalances. Drinking small amounts of light salt water or sports drinks frequently helps restore sodium and potassium ions, maintain fluid balance, and support normal metabolic functions.

4. Loosen Clothing

Tight clothing restricts the body, hinders skin ventilation, and impedes sweat evaporation, reducing heat dissipation efficiency. Unbuttoning collars, loosening belts, and removing tight garments allow greater skin exposure, enhancing airflow over the body surface and promoting faster heat release.

5. Timely Medication

For symptoms such as headache and dizziness caused by heatstroke, medications like Huoxiang Zhengqi Water or Shidi Shui may be used according to medical advice. These remedies help clear internal heat, relieve summer heat, regulate qi, and harmonize the digestive system, thereby quickly alleviating discomfort and aiding recovery.

Elderly individuals, children, and patients with chronic diseases are more prone to severe complications after heatstroke and require special attention. If symptoms such as unconsciousness, seizures, or low blood pressure occur, call emergency services immediately. During recovery, avoid consuming greasy or spicy foods right away; instead, opt for light, easily digestible meals, ensure adequate rest, and refrain from re-exposure to high-temperature environments in the short term.

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If pertussis has entered the recovery phase, and the patient has completed a full course of standardized treatment, with daytime coughing nearly resolved and only occasional mild coughing at night—without other symptoms such as fever, shortness of breath, or vomiting—medication may generally be discontinued after medical evaluation. At this stage, the mild cough is usually a normal response during the healing process of the respiratory mucosa, and the body can gradually recover on its own without continued reliance on medication.