According to a WebMed article, roughly 400 Americans die from heat strokes each year. Although many people think a heat stroke (hyperthermia) is caused by overexertion in the sun, it actually occurs because the body isn’t able to control its body temperature. In fact, someone suffering from a heatstroke is unable to sweat much at all. When body temperature rises quickly the ability to sweat fails so the body isn’t able to cool itself down. Some people even develop heat strokes while sitting still, not exerting themselves at all.
People at Higher Risk for Heat Stroke
Several health conditions put certain people at a higher risk for heat strokes than others. For example, people taking medications such as diuretics are more likely to have heat strokes. Medicines for high blood pressure such as beta-blockers can hinder the heart from beating as rapidly as it should during hot weather. Diabetics can easily become dehydrated when the blood sugars aren’t under control, hindering the body from sweating. Obesity presents another threat as the larger the person, the more challenging it is to lose extra heat.
Symptoms and Signs of a Heat Stroke
- A body temperature of 105 degrees
- Red warm dry skin because the body can’t sweat
- Dizziness or nausea
- Rapid pulse or heartbeat
- Confusion or delirium
- Unconsciousness or even death
- Severe headaches
Heat Stroke Prevention Tips
- Keep hydrated - Drink plenty of water, even if you’re not thirsty.
- Wear light, loose clothing – Box up your dark colored tight-fitting clothes and save them for fall and winter. In summer months, only wear loose fitting, light-colored clothing, in addition to a hat and sunglasses.
- Consume more salt - If you know you’ll be spending more time than usual in the sun, consume slightly more salt than normally with your meals.
- Avoid the hottest hours - Stay indoors during the hottest hours of the day, choosing early mornings and evenings for outdoor activities. Stay in a cool place and if your home isn’t air conditioned, spend time where it’s cool such as a mall, library or relative’s home. Don’t walk or run outdoors in extreme heat. Instead, get your exercise in a cool gym or walk in a mall.
- Check weather reports – Each day know what’s predicted for the weather, avoiding the outdoors on days slated for hot temperatures.
- Limit time in sauna or hot tub – Don’t spend more than 15 minutes in a sauna or hot tub during hot summer days.
Treating a Heat Stroke
The first step in treating someone for a heat stroke is to call 911for immediate medical assistance. Remove the person from the sun, as well as take off his outer clothing. Wrap him in cool wet sheets or immerse him in cool water. Apply cold packs of water or ice to the person’s body, lowering body temperature. Give the person small sips of salt water and don’t give any caffeine, drugs or alcohol. Even after the patient is treated, body temperature may remain erratic for several days.
Besides caring for yourself, also look out for others. For example, if you have elderly neighbors or relatives, check on them regularly during the summer, making sure they’re safe. Also, include water bottles for everyone in your car when traveling even short distances. Don’t leave children, elderly people or pets in a closed room or car during hot weather.
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