Heat stroke, also called sunstroke, is a commonly occurring heat-related illness. It is the result of too much exposure to direct sunlight and high temperatures. The extreme heat and increased temperature contribute to dehydration. Dehydration, in combination with continued exposure, causes a shut down of the body’s ability to regulate heat. Core body temperature rises, which can cause serious problems and potentially permanent damage.
Under normal circumstances, the body has a natural cooling ability. When exposed to extreme heat, sweating occurs as a means of cooling down the body. In cases of heat stroke, dehydration and prolonged time in high temperatures prevent the natural cooling efforts. This causes the body’s internal temperature to rise and continue rising. Heat stroke is very serious, a life-threatening occurrence, and requires immediate emergency medical care. Heat stroke can cause damage to vital organs such as the brain and heart and can be fatal if left untreated.
Signs and Symptoms of Heat Stroke
In most cases, early symptoms occur before heat stroke sets in. These early symptoms occur during heat exhaustion, a precursor for heat stroke. While heat exhaustion is less severe than heat stroke, continued exposure to the causes of heat exhaustion will lead to heat stroke. Symptoms of heat exhaustion to look for include general weakness, excessive sweating before dehydration begins to set in, clammy skin, and dark urine. Sufferers approaching heat stroke will start experiencing more severe symptoms.
The first, and most important, warning sign of impending heat stroke is a body temperature higher than 103 degrees. Body temperature will continue rising rapidly with prolonged exposure and lack of medical attention. As the body’s responses continue and heat stroke sets in, symptoms become more intense and begin involving more areas of the body.
Common symptoms that occur during a heat stroke include dry skin without any signs of sweating, a rapid pulse, and a headache. Dizziness and loss of consciousness may also occur. A person experiencing a heat stroke can also have nausea, vomiting, and abdominal cramping.
Some people suffering from heat stroke may experience stronger muscle weakness or cramping as dehydration worsens, rapid breathing, and sometimes seizures. Hallucinations, delusions, slurred speech and extreme irritability may also occur as neurological symptoms progress and worsen. Immediate medical attention is necessary in order to prevent dangerous complications.
Prevention and Treating Heat Stroke
There are numerous steps that can be taken to avoid heat stroke and other heat-related illness. First and foremost, drink plenty of water and wear light clothing while outdoors. The main focus should be keeping the body cool and providing the body with proper means to engage in internal cooling. Water consumption should increase by 16 to 32 ounces for each hour in higher temperatures.
The face should be shielded from direct sunlight using a hat. Clothing should be made from breathable fabrics such as cotton. The clothing worn should be loose, allowing for air flow. Clothes should be from lighter colors.
Avoid being outdoors during the hottest part of the day when possible. If remaining inside is not an option, try to find spots of shade to cool off periodically. Take frequent breaks during vigorous outdoor activities such as exercising or extensive manual labor. After exposure to high temperatures, continue drinking water. Avoid standing directly in front of air conditioning vents or fans immediately. Allow the body to cool gradually.
Treatment for heat stroke is vital. Initial efforts, while waiting for medical help, should include moving the affected person out of direct sunlight. Remove a few pieces of clothing and apply cool towels around the body. Provide plenty of fluids. When medical help is provided, the person will have ice packs applied to specific areas of the body such as the neck and armpits. Medical staff may use a cooling blanket with additional ice packs. Intravenous fluids will be given to rehydrate the body.