Stay cool and hydrated to avoid heat stroke
During a heat wave or period of high temperature, it is important to recognize the warning signs of heat-related illness. There are different types of illnesses, ranging from those that cause temporary discomfort to the often fatal condition known as heat stroke.
Physicians at the Backus Hospital Emergency Department treated seven cases of heat stroke from June 1 to July 10 of this year, as compared to 20 cases from June through September of 2006. Nationwide, as many as 400 deaths per year are attributed to heat stroke.
Heat stroke is a form of hyperthermia (abnormally elevated body temperature) that occurs when the body is not able to dissipate heat quickly enough to cool itself. Populations most susceptible to heat stroke include infants, the elderly, athletes, and people working outdoors and exerting themselves in hot weather.
Symptoms of heat stroke include:
- High body temperature with hot, dry skin (no sweating)
- Rapid pulse
- Difficulty breathing
- Strange behavior, disorientation, confusion, hallucinations
- Nausea or vomiting
- Seizure or coma
A person experiencing heat stroke needs immediate medical attention. While help is on the way, it is important to cool the victim in any way possible. Get the victim to a shady area, remove clothing, apply cool water to the skin, fan the victim to promote sweating and evaporation, and have them drink water if they are conscious.
Olawole Ayeni, MD, a physician at the Colchster Backus Health Center, said that the most important thing people can do to avoid heat stroke is to drink plenty of water and avoid strenuous activity on very hot days.
“A person experiencing heat stroke will exhibit markedly abnormal behavior including combativeness, dizziness, and confusion,” Dr. Ayeni said. “Their skin will be pale, cool and moist, and they may complain of headache or fatigue. It is important to seek emergency medical attention right away.”
If you must perform physical activities in hot weather, drink plenty of fluids (such as water and sports drinks), but avoid alcohol, coffee, and tea which may lead to dehydration. Take frequent breaks to hydrate yourself and wear hats and light colored clothing to stay cool and protect from the sun’s scorching rays.
As with other heat related illnesses, the most important thing to know about heat stroke is that it is much easier to prevent than to treat.