Heat Stroke It is an acute condition of hyperthermia that is caused by prolonged exposure to excessive heat or heat and humidity.

y. It is defined as a body temperature of greater than 40.6 C (105.1 F) due to environmental heat exposure with lack of thermoregulation. Heat stroke is a true medical emergency that is often fatal if not properly and promptly treated. Heat stroke is also sometimes referred to as heatstroke or sun stroke.

Who is at risk of Heat Stroke? infants, the elderly (often with associated heart diseases, lung diseases, kidney diseases, or who are taking medications that make them vulnerable to dehydration and heat strokes), athletes, and Individuals who work outside and physically exert themselves under the sun.

What are heat stroke symptoms and signs? Symptoms of heat stroke can sometimes mimic those of heart attack or other conditions. Sometimes a person experiences symptoms of heat exhaustion before progressing to heat strokes. Signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion include: nausea, vomiting, fatigue, weakness, headache, muscle cramps and aches, and Dizziness.

However, some individuals can develop symptoms of heat stroke suddenly and rapidly without warning. Different people may have different symptoms and signs of heat stroke. Common symptoms and signs of heat stroke include:

high body temperature, the absence of sweating, with hot red or flushed dry skin, rapid pulse, difficulty breathing, strange behaviour, hallucinations, confusion, agitation, disorientation, seizure coma

How do you treat a heat stroke victim? Victims of heat stroke must receive immediate treatment to avoid permanent organ damage. First and foremost, cool the victim. Get the victim to a shady area, remove clothing, apply cool or tepid water to the skin (for example, with the use of cool sheets and towels or continuous sponging with cool water), fan the victim to promote sweating and evaporation, and place ice packs under armpits and groin. If the person is able to drink liquids, have them drink cool water or other cool beverages that do not contain alcohol or caffeine. Monitor body temperature with a thermometer and continue cooling efforts until the body temperature drops to 101 to 102 F (38.3 to 38.8 C).

How can heat stroke be prevented? The most important measures to prevent heat strokes are to avoid becoming dehydrated and to avoid vigorous physical activities in hot and humid weather. Drink plenty of fluids (such as water and sports drinks) Avoid alcohol, caffeine (including soft drinks and tea), and tea which may lead to dehydration. Take frequent breaks to hydrate yourself. Wear hats and light-colored, lightweight, loose clothes.