Heatstroke
Introduction
When we are in a hot environment, our body activates heat loss mechanisms by enhancing automatic thermoregulatory response to increase sweat production and breathing rate. Yet, simultaneously, water and salt are lost in the form of perspiration, which are the essential elements for maintaining normal body function.
Heat Exhaustion
Thus, heat exhaustion usually happens to people who are engaged in prolonged outdoor physical activities in hot environments as a result of fluid loss, electrolyte imbalance and inadequate perfusion to supply nutrients to organs. A victim usually has the following signs and symptoms:
- Dizziness
- Fatigue
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Rapid heart beat
- Profuse sweating
- Thirst
- Muscle cramps
Heatstroke
If a victim with signs of heat exhaustion continues to stay in a hot environment, it will lead to a more dangerous situation – heatstroke. Under such circumstances, the victim's thermoregulatory mechanism may break down completely, causing the body temperature to rise to a fatal level. Signs and symptoms of heatstroke are:
- Hot, dry and red skin
- Full and strong pulse
- Confusion
When heatstroke is suspected
One should:
- Keep clam & call "999" to summon an ambulance immediately
- Move the victim to a cool place
- Wipe the victim with a wet towel to cool down the body
- Give the victim water to drink to replenish fluid loss
Caution
- Do not try to cool down the victim by wiping the body with alcohol
- Do not give the victim anything to eat or drink unless full consciousness has returned
Prevention
1. Avoid prolonged strenuous exercise in hot and humid weather as far as possible
2. If necessary to perform physical activity in a hot environment, we should:
- Wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothing
- Take rest in a cool place at regular intervals
- Replenish body fluids by drinking appropriate amount of electrolyte drinks or fruit juice
- Avoid consuming alcoholic beverages