Each summer seems to get hotter. With El Niño going full-blast, health concerns caused by the extreme weather are more rampant. One of these is heat stroke, which is considered a dangerous condition that needs immediate medical attention. Heat stroke isn’t just fainting due to high temperatures. It can cause damage to internal organs and eventually kill. It starts out with a slew of negligible symptoms, which means that you’ll have to be extra aware of them, and you need to act on them once they manifest.
WebMD notes that if you are exhibiting these symptoms, immediately move to an air conditioned room, remove unneccessary clothing, cool down your neck and your back with a wet cloth or ice pack, and call a doctor.
Heat cramps
Heat cramps are muscle cramps and spasms due to physical exertion in a hot environment.
Heat synocope
This is fainting caused by physical exertion in extreme heat. It’s basically your body automatically shutting down in order to cool itself. Blood flow to the brain is reduced.
Heat exhaustion
This symptom brings about heavy sweating and and rapid heartbeat.
High body temperature
The main symptom of heat stroke is going beyond 40.5 oC or 105 oF without prior illnesses or conditions.
Other symptoms include:
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Nausea or vomiting
- Dry skin
- Shallow breathing
- Lack of sweating
- Confusion and disorientation
- Seizures
Stay safe and prevent heat stroke by keeping hydrated, wearing loose and comfortable clothing, slathering on environmentally-safe sun block lotions, taking it easy during work-outs, and staying in cool environments.
Image: Pixabay
