Extreme heat: what to do in the event of exhaustion or sunstroke? What is heat stroke?

 Extreme heat: what to do in the event of exhaustion or sunstroke?

With temperatures breaking heat records all over the world, the risk of sunstroke increases dramatically. Here are some tips for spotting the telltale signs.

What is heat stroke?

Heatstroke occurs when the body is unable to compensate for the rise in temperature and to cool itself properly. Sweating normally plays the role of conditioning the body, but when the heat is extreme, sweating may not be enough . The body temperature then rises rapidly, which can damage the brain and other vital organs.

The most serious form of heat stroke is heatstroke, which can cause death or permanent disability if emergency treatment is not given. Heat exhaustion is a milder version, which can develop after several days of exposure to extreme heat without sufficient hydration.

What are the signs of heat exhaustion?

There are a number of signs that warn of heat exhaustion, and they vary from individual to individual. These symptoms should be watched closely:

• Profuse sweating

• Muscle cramps

• Pallor

• Fatigue

• Weakness

• Dizziness

• Headache

• Nausea

• Vomiting

• Fainting

• Cold, wet skin

• Quick and short breathing

• Fast and weak pulse

What to do when you think someone is suffering from heat exhaustion?

• Take the person to a cooler, shaded area where they can lie down.

• Try to cool the person down quickly: loosen their clothes, run a cold bath or cold shower, apply cool sponges or towels, or, if the humidity is low, wrap the person in a cool, damp sheet and ventilate it vigorously.

• Give him sips of water to drink, especially no alcohol.

• Monitor his body temperature and continue these efforts to cool down until it drops below 39 ° C. 

What are the signs of sunstroke?

Again, symptoms can vary, but these are one to watch out for:

• Extremely high body temperature (above 39.5 ° C)

• Red, hot and dry skin, without perspiration

• Fast and strong pulse

• Severe headache (throbbing)

• Dizziness

• Nausea

• Mental confusion

• Difficulty in articulating

• Loss of consciousness (coma)

• Convulsions

What if you suspect someone has sunstroke?

• Dial 15 immediately, this is a medical emergency.
• Move the person to a cooler environment.
• Reduce body temperature with cold cloths or even a cold bath.
• Do NOT give him any liquids.