The temperatures are rising each passing day and the scorching heat is increasing the risk of health problems like dehydration, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke. It is crucial to take care of oneself and avoid stepping outdoors if not necessary.
Heat stroke is one of the most serious heat related illnesses. According to the Centre for Disease Control and Prevention, heat stroke occurs when the body can no longer control its temperature. The body’s temperature rises rapidly, the sweating mechanism fails, and the body is unable to cool down. “When heat stroke occurs, the body temperature can rise to 106°F or higher within 10 to 15 minutes. Heat stroke can cause permanent disability or death if the person does not receive emergency treatment,” the CDC stated.
To acquaint ourselves with the warning signs of heat stroke, OnlyMyHealth connected with Dr Neeraj Tulara, General Medicine and Infectious disease specialist, Dr L H Hiranandani Hospital, Mumbai.
Heat Stroke
Explaining heat stroke and the importance of identifying its warning signs, Dr Tulara said, “Being familiar with the warning signs of heat stroke is essential to protect not only ourselves, but also our dearest family members when temperatures rise.”
Adding further, he said, “Heatstroke is a medical emergency that takes place when the body's cooling systems do not work effectively anymore, which causes the internal temperature of the body to go significantly higher than what is normal. Identifying emerging symptoms early might be a lifesaver.”
Warning Signs Of Heat Stroke
Dr Tulara said, “The initial symptoms may include excessive sweating and a rapid switch off of the sweating reflex as the body tries to maintain a certain level of temperature.” Besides a strong, rapid pulse, nausea or vomiting, a hot and flushed skin, and throbbing headache should also raise the alarm.
High Body Temperature: A core body temperature above 104°F (40°C) is a primary sign of heat stroke. It's important to have a thermometer on hand to accurately monitor body temperature.
Flushed Skin: The skin may become hot and red, particularly in the face, as the body struggles to regulate its temperature.
Rapid Breathing: Heat stroke can lead to rapid, shallow breathing as the body tries to cool down.
Rapid Heart Rate: The heart rate may increase significantly as the body works harder to cool itself.
Headache: Intense throbbing headaches, especially when coupled with other symptoms, can indicate heat stroke.
Nausea and Vomiting: Heat stroke can cause nausea, vomiting, or both, which can lead to dehydration and further complications.
Adding more to the warning signs of heat stroke, Dr Tulara said, “Heatstroke that is not treated early may become worse, leading to agitation, disoriented speech and even seizures or loss of consciousness, only emphasizing how urgently the medical care is needed.”
Also read: Heat Stroke In Children: Expert Tips To Keep Them Safe During Hot Weather
Preventive Measures
With high risen temperatures, it is important for an individual to take these preventive measures listed by Dr Tulara seriously and follow them.
- Stay well-hydrated by drinking a lot of fluids mainly water or even sports drinks and lastly don't drink caffeinated or alcoholic drinks.
- Wear lightweight, light colored and airy clothes so that your body can be cooled.
- Book out more concentrated exercises to cooler times of the day and always incorporate short breaks in either the shaded areas or the air conditioned areas.
- For those who are working outdoors or the extended ones participating in physical activities, it is essential to go through a slow adaptation to the heat in a stretched period of about four weeks.
- Pay close attention to your health condition and be quick to intervene if you or someone around you develops any symptoms of heat illnesses.
Concluding, Dr Turala said, “Remember people can die from heatstroke, but it can be avoided if you're aware and take preventive measures. The Summer sun can be strong enough but don't you worry, we can also survive during the warmest of days and stay safe.”