HEAT STROK

During summer season most part of country faces high temperature 46-50degree, due to these high temperature  anyone can get heatstroke.  Heatstroke is a serious medical condition that requires immediate attention.

What is heat stroke- Heat stroke is the most severe form of heat illness. It occurs when your  body is no longer able to regulate its temperature . This can happen due to prolonged exposure to high temperatures, your body temperature can rise rapidly, exceeding 104 F.

Recognizing the symptoms-

High body temperature-Body temperature of 104 f or high is hallmark of heat stroke.

-Altered mental state confusion, agitation ,slurred speech ,coma.

-Nausea and vomiting feeling sick.

-Flushed skin red, hot, dry

-Breathing may become shallow and rapid.

-A throbbing headache

If you suspect someone has heat stroke take following steps immediately

• Call emergency services take patient under doctor supervision
• Move to a cooler environment, loosen clothing and remove anything that might restrict airflow.
• Try to cool person down with coldwater immersion- If possible immerse the person in a tub of cool water, cold compresses-Apply cold, wet cloths or ice packs to the arm pit, neck back, groin these area are rich in blood vessels close to skin and can help in cool the blood, spray with water and fan.
• Hydrate- If a person is conscious and able to swallow give them cool water to drink, avoid sugary and caffeinated drink or alcoholic beverages as they can cause dehydration. Drink oral rehydration solution (electoral, oralyte, ors) to maintain salt balance in body.
•  Monitor body temperature- use a thermometer if available and continue cooling efforts until the body temperature drops to 101-102f.

Preventing heat stroke-

• Drink plenty of fluids and stay hydrated, drink water even if you do not feel thirsty
• Wear light, loose fitting, light coloured cloths.
• Take break- avoid strenuous activity during hottest part of day, if not necessary avoid going out from 10 am to 4 pm. If going out take frequent break in sheds or cool area.
• Use sunscreen- sunburn can affect body ability to cool itself  so apply broad spectrum sunscreen.
• Avoid alcohol and caffeine these can contribute dehydration.

Conclusion – heat stroke  is a life threatening condition need immediate and effective action. Remember prevention is better than cure.