Heatwave Alert: The human body (and that of all warm-blooded animals) requires a tightly regulated temperature-controlled system to function optimally. When this mechanism becomes overwhelmed, a person may suffer from heat stroke in hot and humid conditions (or hypothermia in cold climates). In a warm environment, evaporation is the main method of heat loss, but it loses effectiveness above a relative humidity of 75%.
In an interview with Zee English, Dr Vikram Dalvi, Consultant Internal Medicine, Manipal Hospitals shared with us the do’s and don’ts to avoid heatstroke and stay healthy.
When a person’s body becomes excessively hot, they may experience a condition called heat stroke. India is witnessing an unprecedented heat wave with some unfortunate deaths. It is important to know about this condition so that it can be prevented or at least detected at an early stage.
Most often, heat stroke occurs when people exercise in very hot and humid weather without drinking enough fluids. But even people who are not exercising can get heat stroke. Young children and infants, older individuals, and people with underlying health problems are most likely to be affected. It can also affect people who do not have access to shelter and sufficient water.
Heat stroke requires an immediate medical response. Untreated heat stroke causes multiple organ failure and can lead to death. Heat cramps and heat exhaustion can also occur when a person becomes overheated. Although not as fatal as heat stroke, several disorders can cause it if left untreated.
Typical Signs and Symptoms
People with heat stroke are:
– Body temperature should be at least 104°F (40°C).
– Brain symptoms – These can include:
– delusions and hallucinations
– difficulty walking
– tour
– passing out
Heat stroke can also cause:
– fast breathing or rapid heartbeat
– redness and warmth of the skin
– vomiting or diarrhea
– muscle cramps or weakness
– Headache
Your body needs to cool down as soon as possible as the main treatment. This is something that doctors can do in a number of ways. This may include using a fan to blow air over wet sheets/cool blankets/pouring cold water over the patient. If possible, this can be done before the patient is taken to the hospital. In the hospital, doctors will also treat other problems caused by heat stroke.
Can heat stroke be prevented/avoided?
When the weather is hot or humid, you can do the following to avoid heat stroke:
Try not to be overly physically active, and take frequent breaks when you exercise in hot and humid weather.
Drink enough fluids, such as water or sports drinks, to prevent thirst. But don’t force yourself to drink a lot in a short period of time, taking frequent sips.
Exercise as much as possible in the morning before it gets too hot. Protect your head, neck and ears from direct sunlight. Avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., unless necessary.
– Wear loose, light clothing. Don’t wear too many layers.
You should also pay attention to the symptoms of heat cramps or heat exhaustion. Heat cramps cause painful muscle spasms. Headache, dizziness, nausea or vomiting are some of the symptoms of heat exhaustion. It can also make you tired or thirsty. If you have heat cramps or symptoms of heat exhaustion, you should cool down immediately to avoid heat stroke.
To cool down your body, you can:
Wash yourself with cold water before sitting in front of the fan.
– An automobile or facility with air conditioning is better than going into the shade.
– Take a shower or bath with cold water.
– Drink water or sports drinks. Do not consume any alcoholic or caffeinated beverages.
– Any extra clothes you are wearing should be removed.
Apply a cold towel or ice pack to your neck, underarms and groin.