Heat stroke is a serious condition caused when the body overheats, often as a result of high temperatures. It may save lives by knowing the signs and taking precautions. In this article, we’ll go into the definition of heat stroke, its symptoms, and seven important precautions against this serious illness. Our world is changing rapidly due to industrialization, which has improved economic transition and brought benefits and drawbacks for society. Heat stroke is just one of the many illnesses caused by global warming, the rapid rise in global temperatures.

What is a HEAT STROKE?

Heat stroke is a condition in the human body caused by a rapid increase in temperature. It happens when the sweating mechanism fails, resulting in its inability to cool down. When heat stroke occurs, the body temperature rises to 106°F or higher within 10 to 15 minutes. It may sound like a frivolous kind of disease, but it’s not. People have lost their lives because of the condition, and it’s very common in the sub-tropical areas where people face temperatures rising to 40°–45°C in the summer. Your common symptoms are headaches, nausea and vomiting, rapid pulse, dehydration, a dry and swollen tongue, and slurred speech. These symptoms can also reach a body temperature of up to 40°C.

But by taking a few measures, we can redeem ourselves from this deadly disease. One of the most common things we can do is keep ourselves hydrated. It helps regulate the body’s sweat. Hence, keep ourselves cool. Less exposure to the sun, wearing loose-fitting clothes, and being cool are a few life-saving measures against heat strokes.

But still, if you ever encounter a person with the above symptoms, you can help them and comfort them. Making them take a cold shower, offering them a cool and refreshing drink, or just water would also help, as would removing the extra or unnecessary layers of clothing or taking them to an air-conditioned space, but if the situation denies taking a backstep, take them to the hospital immediately.

Also Read: Summer Plant Care

Heat Stroke Symptoms

The beginning of heatstroke symptoms can be sudden or slow. Heatstroke is a medical emergency at all times. It’s important to identify heatstroke symptoms to act quickly. Common signs and symptoms are:

1. A body temperature of 104°F (40°C) or higher is a hallmark symptoms of heatstroke.
2. excessive sweating or dry skin that doesn’t sweat (anhidrosis)
3. Common symptoms of heatstroke include delirium, agitation, confusion, and slurred speech.
4. Heatstroke can cause an elevated heart rate and shallow, rapid breathing.
5. Heatstroke often leads to gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea and vomiting.
6. The skin may become red, hot, and dry due to the body’s inability to sweat effectively.
7. Because the body can’t sweat efficiently, the skin can get hot, red, and dry.

What can you do to prevent heat stroke?

Protecting yourself and your loved ones from heat stroke is important to anyone who lives during these hot months or travels. Heatstroke generally occurs when working in a hot environment. You run a higher risk if you consume alcohol, don’t drink enough water, or wear bulky or dark clothing in a hot climate. The following advice will help you remain calm and safe:

10 ways to Prevent Heat Stroke

1. Consume a lot of liquids, mainly water. Avoid alcohol or sugary drinks as they may increase your fluid loss.
2. Wear Loosely and Lightly colored clothes to keep your body cool in summer.
3. 3. Apply sunscreen, It helps protect your skin from UV rays, which may cause problems with your body’s natural cooling process.
   4. It is best to stay inside from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
4. Use Sunscreen because Sunburn affects your body’s ability to cool itself, so protect your skin with good SPF sunscreen.
5. Try to stay indoors between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., when the sun’s rays are strongest.
6. Take Frequent Breaks, If you’re working or exercising outside, take frequent breaks in a shaded or cool area.
7. Eat Light Meals: Avoid hot, heavy meals that can heat up your body.
8. use fans and air conditioning in this hot temperature
9. Stay informed about the temperature and plan your activities accordingly.
10. If you’re traveling to a hot climate, increase the amount of time you spend in the heat over a few days.
11. Regularly check on infants, children, elderly, and those with chronic illnesses, as they are more susceptible to heat-related illnesses.

When to see a Doctor?

Heatstroke is a medical emergency that needs to be treated and aided soon. In case a baby or small child with signs of heatstroke in an unventilated room or a heated car, quickly contact emergency services or 911, or take them to a medical facility.

The symptoms of heat exhaustion, heat-related illness, may also be present in cases of heatstroke. It can be difficult to determine which illness you or the affected person is dealing with. For this reason, if you experience any symptoms that could point to heatstroke, you should always see a doctor immediately.

Recovery

The course of your recovery will be dependent on your age, general health, and any previous medical history. Your body temperature will likely fluctuate more than usual for a few weeks. During this period, resting and avoiding physical activity will help in recovery, as will taking precautions to reduce the chance of another problem. 

A doctor will suggest monitoring tests that measure liver and kidney function both during and after recovery. Get healthcare for any uncommon symptoms, such as decreased urine production, disoriented thought processes, or breathing problems. Heatstroke is a dangerous illness that needs to be treated right away because it could be fatal.

© Ruchie Verma
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