Heatstroke is characterized by dizziness, headache, nausea, vomiting, and even sudden fainting. It is a common acute illness in summer, and similar symptoms can occur when working for a long time in high temperature conditions. Severe heatstroke is characterized by a body temperature above 39°C, pale complexion, and symptoms such as fainting.
If a person is found to have heatstroke, they should be immediately moved to a cool and ventilated place, their buttons should be unfastened, and they should be given some strong tea or light saltwater to drink, allowing them to rest quietly. At the same time, press the Hegu and Neiguan acupoints. If the patient has fainting symptoms, acupuncture can be applied to the Renzhong acupoint to help them regain consciousness.
Acupuncture can be applied to the Renzhong and Shixuan acupoints. Fine needles can be used for bleeding method. Shixuan can be used to puncture the collaterals and bleed, and the needles can be left until the body temperature of the limbs recovers. If there is a headache, add Tianwei; if there is vomiting, add Zhongwan; if there are limb spasms or convulsions, add Yanglingquan and Taichong; if there is restlessness, add Sishencong.
Note: Renzhong is an important emergency acupoint that can clear the mind. Shixuan is also a commonly used emergency acupoint that can clear heat and awaken the mind. The specific acupoint selection method can also refer to the "Song of Acupuncture Points for Treatment of Diseases": "For heatstroke, use Renzhong and Baihui to awaken the brain, use Hegu and Neiting to clear the Yangming, use Lieque to clear the upper Jiao, and then use Qihai or Zhongji to guide the Qi downward."
Heatstroke occurs suddenly, and rescue should be timely. Acupuncture, guasha, and other treatments can quickly reduce symptoms in mild cases of heatstroke. For severe cases where the patient has high fever, convulsions, and unconsciousness, they should be quickly taken to the hospital for comprehensive treatment.
