Shun heat stroke in summer
As the mercury shows an upward trend, the threat of heat-related illnesses specially heat stroke rises manifold. Doctors recommend to get hydrated properly and take several measures to prevent heat stroke, otherwise which could be fatal in extreme cases.
Heat stroke, also known as heat hyperpyreixia, occurs due to overheating of the body. The common symptoms and signs of heat stroke are high body temperature, absence of sweating with hot red or flushed dry skin and difficulty in breathing, giddiness, headache, tiredness and even losing consciousness.
When temperature rises more than 1050F, patient becomes unconscious and could even die, if not properly treated. Due to high fever, there might be severe dehydration, kidney failure or internal haemorrhage (bleeding) which could lead to death.
Heat stroke can also occur in people who are not habituated in hot humid environment or hot sunny season. Certain people, who lack sweat glands, are prone to heat stroke. Unsuitable clothing and poor ventilation always increase the risk. People who are exposed to sun for longer period and lack sweating, may develop body temperature as high as 1050F.
Due to abnormal rise of body temperature, it is the central nervous system which gets commonly affected. The thermo-regulatory centre that controls body temperature fails leading to congestion and increased pressure inside the brain.
The life of affected person can be saved by simple measures. Temperature should be brought down as quickly as possible. Bring the patient to a shady area, remove the clothes, apply cool water on the skin, fan the patient to loose temperature by sweating and evaporation and place ice packs under the armpits and groin. Monitor the body temperature and continue the cooling efforts until the body temperature drops to 101-1020 F.
Drinking of plenty water every day is the best way to prevent heat stroke. Taking ORS (Oral Rehydration Solution) are preferred to prevent dehydration. Extra salt should be taken in food or in the form of ORS. Lose cotton clothes, covering most part of the body should be worn. Avoid going out in the sun as possible.
This type of weather can be fatal for children whose immunity level is weaker than of the adults. They are certainly more susceptible to heat stroke.
The usual complaints in case of children are nasal bleeding, inadequate urination, irritation in eyes, headache, nausea, vomiting and loose motions. Experts suggest to avoid direct exposure to the sun from 9 am to 4 pm and to ensure drinking lots of water or ORS to keep body hydrated.
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