One way to tell you have heat stroke is feeling unwell after 30 minutes of resting in a cool place and drinking plenty of water, explains the NHS.
Other signs include:
- Not sweating even though too hot
- A temperature of 40C or above
- Fast breathing or shortness of breath
- Feeling confused
- A fit (seizure)
- Loss of consciousness
- Not responsive
Symptoms can also develop into long-term complications.
As Bupa explains, in addition to the effects on the nervous system, there can be liver, kidney, muscle and heart damage.
How to respond
While waiting for medical assistance, there are actions you can take to cool heat stroke.
The Mayo Clinic recommends the following:
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- Get the person into shade or indoors.
- Remove excess clothing.
- Cool the person with whatever means available — put in a cool tub of water or a cool shower, spray with a garden hose, sponge with cool water, fan while misting with cool water, or place ice packs or cold, wet towels on the person’s head, neck, armpits and groin.
How to prevent it
There’s a high risk of heatstroke during hot weather or exercise so preparing for the conditions can help to prevent it.
The NHS recommends the taking the following precautionary measures:
- Drink plenty of cold drinks, especially when exercising
- Take cool baths or showers
- Wear light-coloured, loose clothing
- Sprinkle water over skin or clothes
- Avoid the sun between 11am and 3pm
- Avoid excess alcohol
- Avoid extreme exercise
“This will also prevent dehydration and help your body keep itself cool,” explains the health body.
It is also worth considering specific risk factors as you may have to take particular precautions if you are at a higher risk.
Your ability to cope with extreme heat depends on the strength of your central nervous system – a factor that varies with age, for example.
Mayo Clinic explains: “In the very young, the central nervous system is not fully developed, and in adults over 65, the central nervous system begins to deteriorate, which makes your body less able to cope with changes in body temperature.”
Source: Daily Express
