With the arrival of high temperatures, the risk of suffering from heat stroke increases, a problem that can be very serious. Prevention is essential, since avoiding a heatstroke or a sunstroke is very simple, as long as some aspects are taken into account. Stay well hydrated, protect yourself from the sun in the hottest hours and avoiding environments with extreme humidity, are the most important points.
However, summer is synonymous with spending time on the street, with friends and family enjoying the good weather. What can contribute to the confusion and that without realizing it, we expose ourselves to the heat and the sun more than necessary. This poses a serious health risk, since we can not only suffer a heatstroke. We can also suffer from various skin problems, even serious diseases.
What is heat stroke
The human body is a powerful machine, prepared to regulate itself and protect itself in any circumstance. To maintain a correct body temperature, between 34º and 39º roughly, the body has various strategies, such as sweating. Through sweat, the body manages to cool down and lower the temperature to avoid internal collapse.
However, human machinery can fail for many reasons, especially if it is not properly protected. On the one hand, it is essential eating the right way so the nutrients act like gasoline for the body. On the other, and almost more importantly, you have to stay well hydrated, through the consumption of natural foods but also by drinking enough water every day. Especially in hot weather.
In the case of body temperature, if the body is not well hydrated and is exposed to excess heat and high temperatures, the natural cooling capacity does not work. Namely, each one must protect their own body so that it can fulfill its functions correctly. Prolonged exposure to heat, poor diet, and poor hydration force the body to overexert itself to adapt.
Heatstroke occurs as a result of this overexertionSince, the process of cooling by sweating fails and the body cannot regulate the temperature.
How to detect it and how to act
Knowing how to act in the event of heat stroke is essential to avoid major consequences, especially in the case of children and the elderly. Heatstroke symptoms can vary, in the first phase the most common features are headache, dizziness, nausea and even in some cases vomiting. Later the temperature can increase rapidly, reaching up to 40º.
In the most serious cases collapse, seizures or loss of orientation can come. What it supposes a very serious situation that can lead to collapseeven have fatal consequences. Therefore, acting quickly is essential to prevent heat stroke symptoms from escalating.
This is what you should do in case of detecting the mentioned symptoms.
- Find a cool place and in the shade.
- Do not lie down, it is necessary keep head up to promote breathing.
- Remove the maximum amount of clothing possible to lower the temperature. A fan or fan can also be used to blow air.
- Apply cold compresses on the nape, forehead and neck.
- Take fresh water in small sips. It is very important that the water is not frozen or that it is taken in large quantities at once, as this can aggravate the situation.
- When the person who suffers from heat stroke is getting better, you should go to a health center. It is essential not to underestimate a heat stroke or sunstroke, the doctor must carry out a complete check-up and follow the condition for a few days.
- In case the person does not improve or if he loses consciousness, it is necessary to call emergency services to appear in person and treat the affected person.
Suffering from heat stroke can be very serious, so the first symptoms should not be underestimated. Acting quickly can avoid very serious consequences. And remember, prevention is better than regret.