Dioralyte for heat stroke: what to know

Heat stroke is a life-threatening failure of temperature control that can affect the brain and other organs. Dioralyte may replace fluid and salts during milder fluid loss, but it cannot cool the body or manage heat stroke. Heat Exhaustion can cause heavy sweating, weakness, dizziness, headache, nausea, and a raised temperature; it can progress and needs prompt action.

Call emergency services for suspected heat stroke. Move the person to shade or a cool place, remove excess clothing, and cool the skin with water, fans, or cold packs while waiting. Do not give Dioralyte, food, or drink to someone confused, drowsy, vomiting, or unable to swallow safely. IV Fluid Therapy may be needed under medical supervision.

Treat confusion, collapse, seizures, loss of coordination, hot skin, or a very high temperature as an emergency. Do not use the presence or absence of sweating to rule heat stroke in or out. A person who remains unwell after cooling, or has persistent vomiting or Fever, needs urgent assessment.

After recovery, ask how to prevent another heat illness, which medicines or health conditions increase risk, and when it is safe to return to exercise or outdoor work.