First Aid protocols specified for immediate management of Heat Stroke
Consuming less than 3 liters of water per day can cause dehydration during heat exposure
Rapidly transitioning from colder to warmer climates can disrupt the body’s heat regulation and potentially lead to Heat Stroke
Internal factors like obesity, renal disease, and hypertension increase the risk.
24 July 2023; Ras Al Khaimah, UAE: As the sweltering heat of summer takes its toll, it is essential to be vigilant and proactive about preventing heat-related illnesses. In particular, the two most concerning conditions during scorching temperatures are Heat Stroke and Dehydration. Dr. Harkirat S Wilkhoo, a specialist in Homeopathy and Lifestyle Medicine at RAK Hospital, offers crucial insights and valuable tips to protect against these health risks.
Heat Stroke, caused by prolonged exposure to extreme heat or heatwaves coupled with dehydration, poses a serious threat. People of all ages, particularly those between 4 and 65 years, are susceptible. Internal factors like obesity, renal disease, and hypertension increase the risk.
Obesity, in particular, leads to increased insulation in the body, retaining heat, and raising the likelihood of heat-related illnesses. Low fluid intake, consuming less than 3 liters of water per day, can cause dehydration during heat exposure, further increasing the risk of Heat Stroke. Dietary patterns, especially the consumption of salty, fast, and fried foods, can also contribute to dehydration and elevate the risk of heat-related illnesses.
External factors such as sudden temperature changes, such as rapidly transitioning from colder to warmer climates or dry-humid weather, can disrupt the body’s heat regulation and potentially lead to Heat Stroke. High heat index conditions, characterized by high humidity and rapid sweat evaporation, also elevate the vulnerability to Heat Stroke.
Recognizing Heat Stroke and distinguishing it from Heat Exhaustion by identifying the key symptoms are important. Heat Exhaustion can cause dizziness, headache, sweating, rapid heartbeat, nausea, weakness, and cramps. On the other hand, Heat Stroke can present symptoms such as high temperature above 104°F, throbbing headache, lack of sweating, red and hot dry skin, weakness, rapid heartbeat, confusion, fainting, and more.
Heat Stroke requires urgent attention and specific protocols for management. Providing First Aid tips, Dr. Wilkhoo says, “Firstly, Cool down the body temperature by using methods such as a cold bath, air conditioning, blowing air on a wet body, proper ventilation, or moving the patient to a shady and airy area. Apply ice packs to the armpits, groin, neck, and back. Once the patient is stable, provide small quantities of cold water to sip frequently to prevent stomach cramps and vomiting.”
To avoid Heat Stroke and Dehydration, Dr. Harkirat S Wilkhoo suggests avoiding caffeine, alcohol, nicotine, salty snacks, fast & fried food, soy sauce, and carbonated drinks. Consuming plenty of cold water in sips, along with juices, soups, vegetable juices, and watery fruits is recommended. Wearing lightweight, loose-fitting clothes and using sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 50 or more is advisable too.
Dehydration on the other hand is caused by fluid loss which can disrupt bodily functions. Recognize it by symptoms like fatigue, dizziness, headache, excessive thirst, and stomach cramps.
To combat Dehydration, Dr. Harkirat S Wilkhoo recommends the following:
· Drink plenty of cold water, juices, buttermilk, etc.
· Consume watermelon, grapes, oranges, and cantaloupe, along with raw salads like cucumber and tomatoes.
· Avoid soda, coffee, tea, smoking, and oral tobacco.
· Monitor your blood pressure regularly.
With the right precautions and attention to personal health, it is possible to enjoy a safe and enjoyable summer while safeguarding against Heat Stroke and Dehydration.
