Sunstroke (Heatstroke) Everyone is suffering due heat. In many states of the country, hot air has made it difficult for people to live. There is a risk of heat-stroke or heat stroke during the summer season. What is heat-stroke or heat stroke, what are the causes, symptoms and remedies, we will learn in the article.
In many states of the country, everyone is still suffering due to heat. The heat wave has made life difficult for people and AC-coolers have also failed. In many areas of the country, the mercury has reached 45 degrees. The number of heat stroke patients has increased in hospitals of many states including Delhi. According to Dr. Ritesh Gupta of Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital in Delhi, “Heat stroke occurs when the body is not able to regulate its rising temperature and the sweat mechanism that helps cool the body also fails. In such a situation, special precautions are advised. Know about what is heat-stroke, what are its symptoms and what are the home remedies.
What is heat stroke?
Heat stroke is called ‘heat stroke’ in common language. This happens when your body cannot control its temperature. When heat-stroke occurs, the body temperature increases rapidly and does not decrease. When someone suffers from heat stroke, the sweating mechanism of the body also fails and the person does not sweat at all.
Body temperature can rise to 106°F or higher within 10 to 15 minutes of heatstroke. If it is not treated in time, then human death or organ failure can also occur.
Understanding Heatstroke: Symptoms and Prevention
As temperatures rise, the incidence of heatstroke also increases. Heatstroke is a severe form of heat illness that occurs when the body overheats, typically due to prolonged exposure to high temperatures or physical exertion in hot weather. It can be life-threatening if not treated promptly. Here’s what you need to know about recognizing the symptoms of heatstroke and home remedies to prevent it.
Symptoms of Heatstroke
- High Body Temperature: A core body temperature of 104°F (40°C) or higher is the main sign of heatstroke.
- Altered Mental State or Behavior: Confusion, agitation, slurred speech, irritability, delirium, seizures, and coma can all result from heatstroke.
- Alteration in Sweating: In heatstroke brought on by hot weather, skin will feel hot and dry to the touch. In heatstroke brought on by strenuous exercise, the skin may feel moist.
- Nausea and Vomiting: You may feel sick to your stomach or vomit.
- Flushed Skin: Your skin may turn red as your body temperature increases.
- Rapid Breathing: Your breathing may become rapid and shallow.
- Racing Heart Rate: Your pulse may significantly increase because heat stress places a tremendous burden on your heart.
- Headache: You may experience a throbbing headache.
Home Remedies to Prevent Heatstroke
- Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day. Avoid beverages containing caffeine or alcohol, as they can lead to dehydration.
- Wear Appropriate Clothing: Opt for lightweight, light-colored, and loose-fitting clothing. A wide-brimmed hat can provide shade and help keep you cool.
- Avoid Sun Exposure: Stay indoors during the hottest parts of the day, usually between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. If you need to be outside, take frequent breaks in the shade.
- Use Sunscreen: Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30. Sunburn affects your body’s ability to cool itself and can make you dehydrated.
- Take Cool Showers or Baths: Regular cool showers or baths can help regulate your body temperature.
- Use Fans or Air Conditioning: If you do not have air conditioning, go to a shopping mall or public library for a few hours. Fans alone may not prevent heat-related illness when temperatures are very high.
- Avoid Heavy Meals: Large meals can add to your body’s heat production. Opt for smaller, lighter meals throughout the day.
- Limit Physical Activity: If you have to exercise, do it during the cooler parts of the day. Rest often in a shady or cool spot.
Immediate Actions if Heatstroke is Suspected
If you suspect someone is suffering from heatstroke:
- Call Emergency Services: Heatstroke is a medical emergency. Get the affected person to the hospital as quickly as possible.
- Cool the Person: Move them to a cooler place and try to lower their body temperature with whatever means available — immerse them in a cool bath, spray them with a garden hose, sponge them with cool water, fan them while misting with cool water, or place ice packs on their head, neck, armpits, and groin.
Recognizing the symptoms and knowing the preventive measures can help you stay safe during extreme heat conditions. Always take heat warnings seriously and look out for one another to prevent heatstroke and other heat-related illnesses.
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Prabhat Time
By Nitesh Saxena
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