Heat Stroke and management
What is Heat stroke?
Heat stroke, also known as sun stroke, is a type of severe heat illness that results in a body temperature greater than 40.0 °C (104.0 °F) and confusion. Other symptoms include red skin, headache, and dizziness. (Wikipedia)
Heat stroke is a medical emergency.
Causes
Heatstroke can occur as a result of:
· Exposure to a hot environment. This are called non-exertional (classic) heatstroke, being in a hot, humid environment especially for prolonged periods, most often in older adults and in people with chronic illness.
· Strenuous activity. This are called Exertional heatstroke is caused by an increase in core body temperature brought on by intense physical activity in hot weather. It's most likely to occur if the patient not used to high temperatures.
In either type of heatstroke, this condition can be brought on by:
· Wearing excess clothing that prevents sweat from evaporating easily and cooling body
· Drinking alcohol, which can affect body's ability to regulate temperature
· Becoming dehydrated by not drinking enough water to replenish fluids lost through sweating.
Symptoms of Heat stroke
Heatstroke signs and symptoms include:
· High body temperature. 104 F (40 C) or higher, is the main sign of heatstroke.
· Heat exhaustion. Such as dizziness, mental confusion, headaches, and weakness, before a heat stroke occurs.
· Altered mental state or behavior. Confusion, agitation, slurred speech, irritability, delirium, seizures and coma can all result from heatstroke.
· Alteration in sweating. A lack of sweating in classic heatstroke, while present in exertional heatstroke.
· In heatstroke brought on by hot weather, skin will feel hot and dry to the touch. However, in heatstroke brought on by strenuous exercise, skin may feel dry or slightly moist.
· Flushed skin. Skin may turn red as body temperature increases.
· Rapid breathing. Rapid, shallow breathing
· Racing heart rate. Rapid heartbeat, either strong or weak.
· Headache. Thrombing headache.
· Young children, in particular, may have seizures. Eventually, unconsciousness, organ failure, and death will result.
Other symptoms may include
· Red, hot, and dry skin
· Unconsciousness
Prevention of Heat stroke
Heatstroke is predictable and preventable. The risk of heat stroke can be reduced by observing precautions to avoid overheating and dehydration.
Take these steps to prevent heatstroke during hot weather:
· Wear loose-fitting, lightweight clothing. .
· Protect against sunburn.
· Use a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses
· Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15.
· Apply sunscreen generously, and reapply every two hours — or more often if you're swimming or sweating.
· Drink plenty of fluids to maintain a normal body temperature.
· Take extra precautions with certain medications that can affect body’s ability to stay hydrated and dissipate heat.
· Never leave anyone in a parked car. This is a common cause of heat-related deaths in children.
· Take it easy during the hottest parts of the day. If you can't avoid strenuous activity in hot weather, drink fluids and rest frequently in a cool spot.
· Try to schedule exercise or physical labor for cooler parts of the day, such as early morning or evening.
· Get acclimated. Limit time spent working or exercising in heat until you're conditioned to it.
· Be cautious if you're at increased risk.
· The general recommendation is to drink 24 ounces of fluid two hours before exercise, and consider adding another 8 ounces of water or sports drink right before exercise. During exercise, you should consume another 8 ounces of water every 20 minutes, even if you don't feel thirsty.
· The workers should insure-
· Know signs/symptoms of heat-related illnesses.
· Block out direct sun and other heat sources.
· Drink fluids often, and before they are thirsty.
· Wear lightweight, light-colored, loose-fitting clothes.
· Avoid beverages containing alcohol or caffeine.
Dr. Kazy Habib BHMS, MPH
General Homoeopathic Physician
Contact: 8801738618894 (call, Imo)
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