Two conditions result from exposure to excessive heat: thermic fever
and heat exhaustion.
In =thermic fever=, after prodromal symptoms consisting of headache,
nausea, and vomiting, there are stupor or coma, fever ranging from 105°
to 110° F., flushing of the face, contraction of the pupils, a rapid,
full pulse, and noisy respirations.
_Management._—Pack the patient in ice, and rub with ice. Ice-water
enemas may also be given. Bleeding and the subcutaneous administration
of normal salt solution are sometimes efficacious.
In =heat exhaustion= consciousness is not lost; the skin is cold and
moist; the respirations are shallow and rapid, but not noisy; and the
pulse is feeble.
_Management._—The patient should be covered with blankets and
surrounded with hot bottles. Aromatic spirit of ammonia (30 minims),
whisky, and black coffee are useful stimulants.