Heatstroke is a serious condition that occurs when your body overheats, often due to prolonged exposure to high temperatures or intense physical activity.
Symptoms of Heatstroke:
- High Body Temperature: A core body temperature of 104°F (40°C) or higher is a sign of heatstroke.
- Altered Mental State: Confusion, agitation, slurred speech, irritability, and even seizures or coma can result from heatstroke.
- Changes in Sweating: Skin may feel hot and dry (in hot weather) or slightly moist (after strenuous exercise).
- Nausea, Vomiting, and Headache: These symptoms may also occur.
- Flushed Skin and Rapid Breathing: Your skin may turn red, and breathing can become rapid.
Causes of Heatstroke:
- Hot Environment: Nonexertional (classic) heatstroke occurs after prolonged exposure to hot, humid weather.
- Strenuous Activity: Exertional heatstroke results from intense physical activity in hot weather.
- It is crucial to seek immediate medical help if you suspect someone has heatstroke. While waiting for emergency treatment:
- Get the person into shade or indoors.
- Remove excess clothing.
- Cool them using water, ice packs, or wet towels on the head, neck, armpits, and groin.
Heatstroke can lead to serious complications or even death. If you encounter someone with heatstroke symptoms, call 911 and take action promptly.
Difference Between Heat Exhaustion and Heatstroke
But, Heatstroke is a serious medical emergency. It happens when your body is unable to control its internal temperature. Symptoms include changes in consciousness and behavior, excessive sweating, nausea, and vomiting. Heatstroke requires immediate medical attention and can occur after milder heat illnesses like heat cramps or heat exhaustion. Remember to stay hydrated and avoid exertion in hot temperatures to prevent both conditions.
Treatment of Heat Exhaustion and Heatstroke
- Heat Exhaustion Treatment:
- Move to a Cooler Place: Get out of the heat and into an air-conditioned or shaded area.
- Hydrate: Drink cool water or sports drinks to replenish lost fluids.
- Cool the Body: Use cool, damp cloths or take a cool shower.
- Rest and Elevate Legs: Lie down and elevate your legs to improve blood flow.
- Loosen Clothing: Remove tight or unnecessary clothing.
- Monitor Symptoms: If symptoms worsen or don’t improve, seek medical attention.
- Heatstroke Treatment:
- Call 911: Heatstroke is a medical emergency. Seek professional help immediately.
- Cool the Body Rapidly: Use ice packs, cold water, or wet towels on the person’s skin.
- Fan Air Over the Person: Promote cooling.
- Do Not Give Fluids: Unlike heat exhaustion, do not give fluids by mouth if the person is unconscious or unable to swallow.
- Monitor Vital Signs: Keep an eye on breathing, pulse, and consciousness level.
- Transport to Hospital: Even if symptoms improve, transport to a medical facility for evaluation .
Early intervention is crucial for both conditions. Stay safe and take preventive measures during extreme hot.
Preventive Measures for Heat-Related Illnesses
- Stay Cool:
- Spend time in air-conditioned places whenever possible.
- If you lack air conditioning, visit a shopping mall or public library to cool down.
- Avoid relying solely on box fans during extreme temperatures.
- Hydrate:
- Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated.
- Opt for water and avoid alcohol, which can dehydrate you.
- Dress Appropriately:
- Wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothing.
- Protect yourself from sunburn by wearing a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen (SPF 15 or higher).
- Time Outdoor Activities:
- Schedule outdoor activities during cooler hours, such as morning and evening.
- Rest in shady areas to allow your body to recover.
- Know Your Limits:
- Pace yourself during exercise in hot environments.
- If you feel lightheaded, confused, weak, or faint, stop all activity and seek shade or a cool area.
These precautions can help you stay safe and prevent heat-related illnesses.
Read also: What is Dehydration, How Drinking is Helpful in Dehydration and Top 10 most Popular Drink
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