With the change in weather, you might notice a change in your body. Especially when the summer season prevails. Heat stroke is a common and serious illness that one can get. With exposure to high temperatures or working for long hours in the heat can lead to a heat stroke.
In this blog, we are going to understand the warning signs of heat stroke in adults, and how to prevent it. Calling for help at the time of emergency is not enough, you should be aware of the basic treatment that is required by a patient who is suffering from heat stroke until the paramedics show up.
Symptoms Of Heat Stroke In Adults
When a person is having a heat stroke, their body temperature shoots up to 104 degrees Celsius. You can also have the below signs when you are having a heat stroke.
- Heavy sweating
- Excruciating headache
- Unable to find balance in walking
- Feeling faint
- Nausea or feeling like the need to vomit
- Red hot and dry skin
- Muscle cramps
- Irregular heart-beating can be slow or rapid
- Having problems in breathing
- Feeling confused
- Slurred speech
- Seizure
Why Does One Have A Heat Stroke?
It is common to have a heat stroke when your body is under strenuous activity for prolonged hours in the sun. Other factors can lead to a heat stroke.
1. Dehydration
When you do not drink enough water, you might experience a throbbing headache and sweating constantly. This can create an imbalance in the level of fluids in your body which results in a heat stroke when you are out in the sun.
It is vital to drink at least eight glasses of water every day to have your body function properly.
2. Wearing Excessive Clothing
When you are wearing multiple layers of clothing on a hot day, it will create a suffocating feeling when you are under sunlight. The layers will add up the heat and make you feel nauseous and unconscious.
This is also one of the steps to treat a heat stroke when the paramedics are on the way to the patient. Remove the excess clothing so that the body can breathe freely.
3. Consuming Alcohol
Alcohol is a form of intoxication that interrupts your body fluids and temperature. This can adversely affect when a person is out under the sun or performing physically tiring activities. Also, if you are someone with high blood pressure, then you are at risk of a heat stroke.
4. Working In A Temperature Environment
Workplaces like construction sites, mines, or fields can also result in heat stroke for adults. Since the body temperature does not match with the environment, there is a possibility that your body cannot adjust to it.
When your body starts to adjust to the environment, it will take time and precautions on your end to prevent heat strokes or any illness related to heat.
Remedies To Prevent Heat Stroke
Heat strokes can be prevented if proper care is monitored.
- Wearing Cotton And Loose Clothing
Avoid wearing black and synthetic clothes in the summer. Since black colors and materials like chiffon, synthetic, silk, or satin radiate more heat, you should avoid wearing them in this season or at least when you are out in the sun.
- Use Sunscreen
You can use sunscreen or lotion to protect against sunburn. Wearing the lotion will not only help you to avoid a heat stroke but also protect your skin from tanning. Remember to use the ones with SPF 15. This sun lotion gives an automatic cooling effect when you are out in the sun and is effective for up to two hours.
- Drink Sufficient Water
Keep yourself hydrated when out in the sun. You can also drink milkshakes, juices, or cold coffee during the summer season. This will help your body to cool down and deal with the heat. Additionally, the juices contain antioxidants and nutrients that are good for your health.
Read More: How To Heal Scraped Skin? Causes And Effective Tips
Conclusion
Experiencing a heat stroke can take a toll on your body. If you see someone having one, then you must call for medical help and give them room to breathe until the help comes. Removing extra layers of clothing, giving them water, or moving them to a cooler place are the first things that you can do to help.
