Image Source: Unsplash
Heat stroke is a serious, potentially fatal condition that requires immediate medical treatment. If your body overheats above 104°F (40°C), it can cross the territory where it cannot cool down, leading to vital organ failure. The worst part? It can happen faster than you imagine, especially in heat and humidity.
Here are five warning signs that should never be ignored.
High Body Temperature Above 104°F
The clearest indicator of heat stroke is an extreme body temperature. If you or someone else feels excessively hot, has flushed skin, or stops sweating despite the heat, take action immediately. A quick temperature check will determine whether it’s an emergency. Disregarding this notice can result in extreme problems, including body organ breakdown.
Confusion and Dizziness
Heat stroke impairs brain function. Your body is distressed if you feel dizzy, disoriented, or have difficulty finding your words. In severe cases, there might be seizures or loss of consciousness. Cool yourself down and seek medical assistance. And confusion caused by heat can develop unexpectedly quickly, so it’s critical to intervene as early as possible.
Increased Heart Rate and Faster Breathing
Your heart beats faster to maintain your body temperature. Red flags are signs of a racing pulse, an irregular heartbeat, and difficulty breathing. This is particularly dangerous to people with chronic health conditions like heart disease.
A complete blood count may be required to evaluate for dehydration and electrolyte imbalances. Dehydration also thickens your blood, making it more difficult for your heart to pump correctly and increasing your risk for complications.
Nausea and Vomiting
Do you feel sick after exposure to the sun? Heat stroke also tends to cause nausea, vomiting, and a poor appetite. This is not merely discomfort; it’s your body managing extreme heat. Hydration can help, but medical intervention may be necessary if symptoms persist. If you continue to vomit, you may lose even more fluids, which will result in further dehydration and make recovery difficult.
Muscle Weakness or Cramps
Heat stroke saps your body’s energy and robs it of essential minerals. If you suffer sudden muscle weakness, cramping, or even collapse, you may be in grave danger. Doctors often check creatinine after severe dehydration to assess the degree of dehydration. Elevated creatinine suggests the kidneys are under stress, and if the underlying cause is not treated quickly, it can lead to damage that persists over the long term.
What To Do if You See These Signs?
If you or another person exhibit symptoms of heat stroke:
- Get out of there immediately and into a more incredible place.
- Drink water but skip alcohol or caffeine.
- Put ice packs on the neck, armpits, and groin.
- Get medical help immediately.
In severe cases, doctors must order tests for organ damage and electrolytes at Medi Linx, a Reference Laboratory Metro Manila. Quick action can save lives.
In the summer, the heat index in the Philippines can reach dangerous levels, typically above 40°C (104°F). This is why heat stroke is so common, especially in city dwellers, where humidity and lack of ventilation worsen the threat.
Wrapping Up
Heat stroke is a preventable but life-threatening condition. The risk can be reduced by spotting signs of trouble earlier and putting the right protections in place for you and your neighbors. Understanding how to take action in an emergency can mean the difference between life and death.