Heatstroke is not something trivial. It is the most serious situation that can occur due to high temperatures and can lead directly to death . The body is not able to regulate its temperature, which increases very quickly, and can reach 41 degrees Celsius. Organs such as the kidney, liver, or pancreas can collapse. It is, therefore, an emergency situation that requires immediate medical attention . Call 911 if you suspect that you or someone else is suffering from heat stroke.
Symptoms of heat stroke
– Exaggeratedly high body temperature: 40 or even 41 degrees fever .
– Very hot, red and dry skin due to lack of sweating.
– Severe headache.
– Much nausea and thirst .
– Unusual sleepiness and / or aggressiveness .
– The person may be delirious, have seizures and even go into a coma .
What to do if heat stroke occurs
As we have already said, it is a situation that can be life or death, so we must act quickly trying to lower the body temperature of the affected person as quickly as possible. For this we will do the following:
– We will call the emergency room at 112 .
– We will place the person in a cool place , in the shade.
– We will undress and cool her with whatever we have on hand : wetting her clothes, with ice water compresses, showering her with cold water (carefully because the contrast too fast can slow down the cooling), wrapping her in a damp sheet and putting a fan in front of her , fanning her …
– If the person is conscious, we will incorporate them and give them water.
– If the person is unconscious, we must place them on their side and we will not give them anything to drink.
How to avoid heat stroke
– Drink water frequently and abundantly without waiting to feel thirsty.
– Do not abuse alcoholic, caffeinated or highly sugary beverages as these promote fluid loss. It is also not advisable to drink very cold or very hot liquids.
– It is not advisable to make copious or hot meals . Prioritize the consumption of cold salads, gazpacho, greens and vegetables, as well as summer fruit such as watermelon and melon, which are very rich in water and minerals.
– If possible, do not go outside during the hottest hours . Opt for cool, shady, or air-conditioned locations.
– Nor is it advisable to make great efforts when it is very hot. Still less do sports outdoors in the hottest hours of the day (from 12 to 17).
– Dress in light clothing that is light, loose and breathable , such as cotton. On the street it is highly recommended to cover your head with a hat or cap.
– At home, keep the blinds on the facades where the sun shines down . If you have it, put the awning.
– Never leave a person (especially care with children, the elderly and chronically ill) or the pet inside the car in the sun or with the windows closed in summer. In these circumstances the car can reach very dangerous temperatures.
