Heat Stroke: Causes, Symptoms and Prevention
I decided to post heat stroke because summer here is approaching. Every summer, many people are suffering from heat stroke due to very hot weather condition.
One of the most severe forms of heat illness is heat stroke. It is also one of a life-threatening emergency as a result of long exposure to the sun which makes a person to have lower body temperature. It is a condition that develops rapidly and requires immediate medical treatment.
The cooling system of our body may begin to fail and allowing heat to build up to dangerous level due to extreme heat. When a person becomes dehydrated and cannot sweat enough to cool their body, their internal temperature may rise to high levels which cause heat stroke.
Each person may experience symptoms of heat stroke in different ways. However, the most common symptoms of heat stroke includes: headache, loss of consciousness, hot and dry skin that is flushed but not sweaty, seizure, dizziness, rapid heart beat, sluggishness or fatigue and disorientation or agitation.
If heat stroke is occurs, immediate first aid measure should taken while waiting for help to arrive. Heat stroke can cause permanent damage or death so it is important to treat the person immediately by removing clothes and gently apply cool water to the skin followed by fanning to stimulate sweating, get the person indoors, and apply ice packs to the groin and armpits
It is important to drink plenty of fluids during outdoor activities most especially during hot days to prevent heat stroke. Drinks water and sports drinks and avoid drinking soda, coffee tea and alcohol which may lead you to dehydration. Also, always protect yourself against extreme sunlight by wearing hat, sunglasses and using umbrella.
Seek physician’s advice if you live in hot climate and have chronic condition.
March 11th, 2009 | Tags: heat stroke | Category: Healthy Lifestyle
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