Heat Stroke is a common illness at the time of summer especially that El Nino phenomenon is currently wrecking havoc all over south east Asia. Heat stroke cannot be avoided by anyone at any age. So how can we prevent this killer?
First off, what is Heat Stroke? It is severe heat sickness that is also a life threatening case. Heat stroke is the result of long, extreme exposure to the sun where the person affected does not sweat enough to lower body temperature. People who work outdoors are the most prone to heat stroke. A person that does not sweat under the heat of the sun will result in dehydration and will suffer high level of body temperature. This case requires emergency medical treatment.
These are the most common symptoms of heat stroke:
- headache
- dizziness
- disorientation, agitation or confusion
- sluggishness or fatigue
- seizure
- hot, dry skin that is flushed but not sweaty
- a high body temperature
- loss of consciousness
- rapid heart beat
- hallucinations
Person who has these symptoms must be taken immediately out of the sun exposure and treated accordingly. Heat stroke are known to be silent killers so don’t ignore theses symptoms. It is important to cool the body temperature of the affected person as soon as possible. You may apple ice packs to groin and armpits as these area is the best place to lower body temperature. Call the physician immediately to prevent more harm on the patient.
The following are the precautionary measure on how you can prevent this kind of stroke.
Drink plenty of water during the day. It is important to drink at least 8 glasses of water a day at any given season. It is better to apply this at the height of summer. Only drink water and avoid sodas, coffee and tea as these can lead also to dehydration.
Wear light and loose-fitting clothes. Tight jeans and thick shirts can make your body temperature rise so avoid these types of clothes during hot days.
Schedule your activities at more convenient time. It is important to make notice of the time schedules of your activities. Always choose the most cooler time of the day as your choice specifically 5 in the afternoon onwards. Doing this can prevent you effectively from disease.
Use umbrella, sun glasses and hat. If you can’t avoid walking under the sun, using umbrella cannot be consider unfashionable. Especially if you are a health buff. Use sun glasses to avoid eye damage from the heat of the sun.
Heat stroke can be prevented. Enough knowledge of the disease can save you and your love ones from this very dangerous silent killer.