How to dissipate internal heat after heatstroke
Sep 04, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Shuwen
Introduction
Under normal circumstances, the heat in the body after heatstroke can be dissipated through methods such as wiping with a wet towel, ice packs, warm water sitz baths, drinking cooling and heat-relieving beverages, or medication. If patients experience discomfort symptoms after heatstroke, it is recommended to seek timely medical attention at a hospital to avoid delaying treatment. Following heatstroke, patients may develop low-grade or high fever.
Under normal circumstances, the internal heat caused by heatstroke can be dissipated through methods such as wiping with a wet towel, ice packs, warm-water sitz baths, drinking cooling and heat-relieving beverages, and medication. Specific details are as follows:
1. Wiping with a wet towel
Heatstroke may lead to low or high fever. Wiping the forehead with a wet towel can assist in lowering body temperature by removing excess heat from the body.
2. Ice packs
In general, ice packs can be applied for heatstroke, as they help reduce skin surface temperature and decrease heat retention, providing some supportive therapeutic effect. However, this method usually only offers symptomatic relief and does not constitute definitive treatment. It is recommended that patients promptly leave the hot environment and rest in a cool, shaded area.
3. Warm-water sitz bath
When bathing, heatstroke patients are advised to use warm water, avoiding excessively hot temperatures. The water temperature should be controlled—typically between 27–30°C. This method gradually lowers body temperature through conductive heat loss and helps alleviate symptoms of heatstroke.
4. Drinking cooling and heat-relieving beverages
After heatstroke, when excess internal heat is present, drinking cooling and heat-relieving beverages such as sour plum soup or mung bean soup can help relieve summer heat, quench thirst, and eliminate internal heatiness.
5. Medication
Patients experiencing symptoms such as fatigue, dizziness, or headache after heatstroke may take traditional heat-relieving medications under medical guidance, such as Huoxiang Zhengqi Water or Shidishui. These medications help eliminate damp-heat from the body and promote recovery.
If patients continue to experience discomfort after heatstroke, it is advisable to seek prompt medical attention to avoid delays in treatment.
