With the arrival of warmer weather in recent years, there have been record high temperatures around the world, increasing the risk of heat stroke. In the past month alone, several deaths have been reported due to this condition.
What is heat stroke?
Heatstroke is a dangerous and life-threatening condition that occurs when exercising in a hot environment. When you are exposed to direct sunlight, either outdoors or indoors, your body cannot dissipate heat as quickly as it absorbs it, causing your body temperature to rise rapidly, reaching 41 degrees in 10 to 15 minutes.
In such extreme heat, our body’s cooling system quickly reaches its limit, making it difficult for the body to cool down. Symptoms of heat stroke include partial or complete loss of consciousness, headache, dizziness, and nausea. Dehydration, vomiting, diarrhea, and low blood pressure can also occur. Heat stroke can occur within one to six hours and can be fatal within 24 hours if not treated properly.
Emergency measures:
Seek emergency medical attention if symptoms of heat stroke occur. During this period, the affected person should be removed from the sun and hot environment and should be taken to a cool or shady place as soon as possible. You should cool down as quickly as possible using cold or wet cloths. In addition, the victim should be given as much liquid as possible.
If possible, the victim should be given additional fluids. If people wear excessive clothing, remove it immediately. Likewise, if the victim is unconscious but breathing normally, they should be placed on the side until emergency personnel arrive. Constant monitoring of breathing and consciousness is required during this period. If the victim is not breathing normally, chest compressions should be given immediately to restore breathing. The best and most important way to prevent heat stroke is to avoid direct exposure to the sun, especially in the afternoon. Wear a light-colored hat to protect your head and drink plenty of water or water. Adults need at least half a liter of extra water on hot days
