In India, summer is almost here, and with it comes dangerously high temperatures. Heatstroke is a major health hazard that killed two people in India on average per day in the summer of 2023, according to data. A total of 252 deaths were reported in the first half of 2023 (until June 30), up from 33 in the same time previous year. When the body overheats, it usually happens from extended exposure to high temperatures or physical activity in hot conditions. The WHO reports that India's heatwave season usually lasts from March to June. However, it sometimes lasts into July.
Heat Stroke causes
- Overexertion in hot weather: Physical activity in high temperatures causes the body to overheat quickly, leading to heat stroke.
- Dehydration: Not drinking enough fluids can make it more difficult for the human body to regulate its temperature, increasing the risk of heat stroke.
- Certain medications: Some medications can interfere with the body's ability to cool itself, making it more susceptible to heat stroke.
- Excessive alcohol consumption: Alcohol impairs the body's ability to regulate its temperature and increases the risk of heat stroke.
- Certain medical conditions: Some medical conditions, such as obesity, heart disease, and diabetes, can increase the risk of heat stroke.
Understanding the importance of recognizing heat stroke symptoms is crucial for quick intervention. Here's an in-depth look at the common heat stroke symptoms:
- High Body Temperature: A core body temperature of 103°F (39.4°C) or higher is a primary indicator of heat stroke. This isn't just feeling feverish; it's a critical point where the body's heat-regulation system is overwhelmed, signaling a dire emergency.
- Hot, Red, and Dry Skin: Unlike heat exhaustion, where the skin may be moist from sweating, heat stroke often presents with hot, red, and dry skin. This is because heat stroke causes the sweating mechanism to fail, preventing the body from cooling down.
- Rapid Heartbeat: The heart rate can significantly increase because the heart is trying to help cool the body by pumping blood more rapidly. This is an attempt to move heat away from the core and to the skin, but it's a sign that the body is under extreme stress.
- Headache: A throbbing headache is common, likely due to dehydration and the body's overall stress from trying to cool itself down.
- Dizziness: Feeling lightheaded or dizzy is another symptom stemming from reduced blood flow to the brain as the body prioritizes cooling.
- Nausea: An upset stomach or vomiting can occur as the body is in distress and focusing its limited resources on addressing the overheating, affecting other functions.
- Confusion: Mental changes such as confusion, irritability, and speech indicate that the brain is affected by the extreme temperatures. This is a dangerous sign, showing that the condition is worsening and could lead to more severe outcomes if not treated immediately.
- Loss of Consciousness: Fainting or loss of consciousness is an alarming sign that the body is no longer able to cope with the heat. This requires immediate action to cool the person down.
Failure to do so could result in serious complications, such as organ damage or even death.
Preventing heat stroke is important, especially during the summer months when temperatures soar & the risk significantly increases. This condition causes severe damage to the brain and other vital organs, and without prompt treatment for heat stroke, it can be fatal. Therefore, understanding prevention strategies from the best medicine hospital in Delhi is essential for staying safe in the summer.
- Stay Hydrated: Maintaining proper hydration is essential to helping your body regulate temperature and prevent heat stroke. The human body cools itself through sweating, and during hot weather, you lose fluids more rapidly. Drinking plenty of fluids, particularly water, helps maintain your body's cooling system. It's recommended to drink water regularly, not just when you're thirsty, as thirst is only sometimes a reliable indicator of dehydration. For those who are active or spend a lot of time in the heat, lemon drinks are also effective and can also help replenish electrolytes lost through sweating.
- Dress Appropriately: Opt for loose-fitting, lightweight, and light-colored clothes to facilitate heat dissipation and keep cool. Dark or tight clothing can trap heat and make it harder for your body to regulate its temperature. A wide-brimmed hat is also beneficial, offering shade and protection for your face and neck. Sunglasses and a lightweight, long-sleeved shirt can further shield your body from the sun's harmful rays.
- Stay Indoors During Peak Sun Hours: The sun's intensity peaks between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., necessitating indoor stays to reduce heat exposure and lower the risk of heat-related illnesses. If you need to be outside, seek shade or make your own with an umbrella. Planning your day to avoid outdoor activities during these peak hours can significantly reduce your risk of heat-related illnesses.
- Take Breaks in the Shade: If outdoor activities are unavoidable, ensure you take frequent breaks in shaded areas. Taking breaks in shaded areas will give your body a chance to cool down. High humidity levels can prevent sweat from evaporating, hindering your body's ability to cool itself.
- Use sunscreen: Applying sunscreen protects your skin from sunburn, helps release heat, and prevents dehydration.
- Avoid Alcohol and Caffeine: Both alcohol and caffeine have diuretic effects, meaning they cause your body to lose fluids more rapidly. In the heat, this can quickly lead to dehydration and make it harder for your body to regulate its temperature, increasing your risk of heat stroke.
Remember, prevention is always better than cure, and it is important to be aware of the symptoms of heat stroke.
Treatment for Heat Stroke:
If you or someone you know is experiencing a heat stroke, it's important to seek medical attention immediately. In the meantime, there are some steps you can take to help cool the person down and prevent further damage:
- Move the person to a cooler place: Get the person out of the sun and into a shaded or air-conditioned area.
- Cool the person down: Use cool water or ice packs to help lower the person's body temperature. You can also fan the person or apply cool, damp cloths to their skin.
- Encourage fluid intake: Have the person drink cool water or lemon drinks to rehydrate them.
- Monitor their condition: Keep an eye on the person's symptoms and seek medical attention if they worsen or don't improve. Concerned about heat stroke risks? At Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, we're prepared to provide immediate assistance and expert care. For immediate help or to learn more about preventing heat stroke, book an appointment with Sir Ganga Ram Hospital. Stay safe and healthy.
Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, provides a detailed insight into prevention and cure methods for heat stroke. To know more, book an appointment today.
