In case of sunstroke get the patient into the coolest place you can,
loosen the clothes about his neck and waist, lay him down with his head
a little raised, and cool him off as promptly as possible. Cloths wrung
out in cold water, applied to the head, wrists and soles of the feet,
are the simplest applications. In severe cases of extreme prostration
from sunstroke, the patient should be immersed in cold water, and even
in an ice pack to get prompt results. After a little recovery is visible
careful nursing is the next important thing. Sunstroke is commonly a
summer disease, but the same conditions may come from overwork in
extremely hot rooms. It begins with pain in the head, or dizziness,
quickly followed by a loss of consciousness and complete prostration.
The head is often burning hot, the face dark and swollen, the breathing
labored, and the extremities are cold. If the latter detail is observed,
mustard or turpentine should be applied to the calves of the legs and
the soles of the feet, after which the hands should be chafed with
flannels or with the palms of the hands. In case of genuine sunstroke
lose no time in calling the doctor.