The frequency of heatstroke cases have been increasing every year. Heat waves have been rampant during the recent years, and the air temperature has been increasing annually. This may be attributed to global warming and people are directly affected by this condition. In this article, we take a look at this fatal attack that has been the cause of death for many unfortunate people. We’ll also discuss who is likely to get it, as well as ways to prevent it. Lastly, we’ll see what we can do in case something like this happens. However, let’s make it clear that the first aid discussed here will not fully help the victim. Call for medical help as soon as possible since heatstroke can be fatal in less than an hour.
Heatstrokes can happen in three ways: some are caused by plain heat, some are caused by excessive exertion, and others are caused by intense burning. The first can easily happen to kids, the elderly, the obese, and especially those with heart conditions. The second usually affects summer athletes where they always practice under the sun while using great energy all the time. Lastly, a burn victim in the 2nd degree will most likely also be a victim of heatstroke. The common signs that a person will show are the rapid beating of the heart, a very rapid rise in temperature, nausea, vomit and some become unconscious.
Prevention and protection from heatstroke is quite easy. The very first thing to remember is that heatstroke can be caused by rapid dehydration. Water cools down the body and without it, the heat from the sun or any heat source will trigger the rapid rise of the body temperature. Because the body needs water to cool down, it’s just logical that we can prevent dehydration and heatstroke by drinking water. It’s not enough that we just drink the recommended eight glasses of water on a hot day. If you’re going out in the sun, always bring with you bottled water to drink from time and time or any sports drink. Even if you’re under the sun, having a constant water supply will prevent heatstroke. However, be cautious since there are also known cases of heatstroke caused by sunburn. Water and a powerful sun block should do the trick.
If cases like this actually happen, the first thing you should do is apply something cold to the victim. You can place them in a tub with lots of ice. You can also shower them constantly until the heat goes down. However, as we have previously said, this will not cure the victim in any way. What you just did is to prevent the victim from dying immediately. The victim will still be in a very dangerous condition if left untreated with professional medical condition. Call 911 or your local hospital as soon as you see these symptoms.
Heatstroke may happen at anytime and at any moment, as long as we are close to any heat source. It’s always best to look out and not expose ourselves too much in the sun or stay away from very hot sources.
- Suggest site to related directory categories: Disease Checklist, Heart Disease
