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Treating and Preventing Heat Stroke This Summer

Heat stroke is the most dangerous kind of heat illness. Unlike heat exhaustion and heat cramps, heat stroke is a medical emergency that can become deadly unless it is quickly treated.

Normally, the body produces sweat to regulate body temperature. It can dissipate heat through the evaporation of sweat or radiation of heat through the skin. But in certain instances such as high humidity and intense heat, the body temperature can sometimes rise to 41.1°C and sometimes even higher.

Usually, heat stroke is the result of a lengthy, intense exposure to the sun. Here, a person can no longer produce enough sweat to lower the body temperature. Another reason why heat stroke occurs is dehydration. A dehydrated person will not be able to sweat quickly enough to lower body heat. Thus, the body temperature can reach dangerous levels. The elderly, infants, outdoor athletes, and individuals on certain medications are most prone to heat strokes. It develops quickly and requires prompt treatment.

Signs of Heat Stroke or Heat Exhaustion

There are many signs of heat strokes. Take note that individuals might experience these symptoms differently. The following are its symptoms:

* Disorientation
* Dizziness
* Hallucinations
* Headache
* Loss of consciousness
* Fatigue
* Hot, dry skin (flushed but not perspiring)
* High body temperature
* Rapid heart beat

Treating Heat Stroke

If a person is already suffering from heat stroke, the first thing that should be done is to put them in a shade. Ideally, they should be placed in a cool environment with a temperature of 15 to 18°C. If the patient’s body temperature reaches 39.5°C and there is still very light sweating, they should be showered or placed in a bath of cool water.

Take note that the temperature can’t be cooler than 15°C because it can do more harm than good. Temperatures above that level will make the blood vessels contract and thus, it will stop the loss of excess heat. Massaging the skin is also recommended because it will improve circulation.

Another way to lower body heat would be to cover the patient with wet towels and change it often. Using an electric fan is also a good idea because it can help lower the body temperature further. And of course, bringing the patient to the hospital s always recommended. Hospitals are better equipped to deal with heat stroke than ordinary homes.

Preventing Heat Stroke

Certain preventive measures can help prevent the adverse effects of heat strokes. Some tips include:

* Drink water before going outdoors this summer. Sports drinks and even juice are also recommended. Liquids that should be avoided include coffee, tea, soda, and alcohol because it can cause dehydration.
* Wear lightweight and loose-fitting clothes this summer preferably in light colors
* Gradually spend more time outdoors if you think you will be doing a lot of outdoor activity in the near future. This will help your body adjust to the heat.
* Schedule active sports at cooler times of the day
* Wear a hat and sunglasses. Use umbrella whenever possible
* Take breaks and spray yourself with cooling formulations or water to keep from being dehydrated
* Try to spend your time indoors during excessively hot and humid days.

Heat Exhaustion in Children and Pets

Heat stroke can happen to children and pets too. In most cases, pets suffer from heat stroke when they are left alone in the car. It is important to take note that heat build-up can occur quickly inside a vehicle especially under direct sunlight. Dogs, in particular, are at an extreme disadvantage because they need to inhale cooler air than their normal body temperature. Inhaling 80-degree air temperature for them is already dangerous. It might only take ten minutes for your pet to be near death. Animals will die from hemorrhaging, intravascular clotting, kidney failure, and cerebral edema because of heat stroke.

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