When it’s hot, the body produces sweat to cool itself down. If it doesn’t cool you down properly, you can get heat stroke. This happens when the body overheats and can no longer cool itself. Heatstroke is a serious condition and, in the worst cases, can be life-threatening.
Many people think that once they acclimate to a hot climate, they are immune to heat-related illnesses like heat exhaustion or heat stroke. But that is not the case. Heat-related illnesses can strike anyone who cannot cope with the high temperatures and humidity of summer. The dangers may not be directly visible, but they are no less real.
What are the symptoms of heat stroke?
Heat stroke is a serious condition that affects the body’s core temperature. This happens when the body cannot regulate its internal temperature and becomes too hot, which can lead to an increased risk of organ damage and death.
If you suspect someone is suffering from heat stroke, you should seek medical help immediately. Heatstroke can lead to serious, long-term health problems if not treated promptly. If you have any of these symptoms, you could have heat stroke. You may have some or all of these symptoms.
- Extremely high body temperature (38.8 degrees Celsius or higher) not caused by exercise
- Dry skin that is red and blotchy, especially on the chest, neck, and armpits
- Unexplained fatigue
- headache
- Cramps in the arms, legs and stomach
- nausea and vomiting
- confusion or unconsciousness.
1. How to recognize heat stroke and what to do?
Because heat stroke is a serious medical emergency, you should always call 911 if you suspect someone is suffering from it. If you think you’re going to have heat stroke, there are a few things you can do to prevent it from getting worse.
First, try to cool down slowly. If you find yourself in a situation where there isn’t much you can do to lower the temperature around you, use a cool water mist or ice packs on your body. Be sure to stay hydrated and electrolytes to avoid muscle cramps. Remove clothing or cover with a cooling blanket if you have one.
2. Proper hydration is important
It’s very easy to get dehydrated during a heat wave, especially if you’re exercising or doing something that makes you sweat profusely. Signs of dehydration include dry mouth and throat, dark urine, dizziness, fatigue, and headaches.
When it’s hot outside, it’s important to stay hydrated. Otherwise, the body excretes excess water, which leads to a strong feeling of thirst. If you are one of those people who are at risk of dehydration, such as B. in older adults, you may still need to drink more water than others.
If you don’t already have one, consider investing in a digital thermometer that can take your temperature. It’s easy to use, can be done in seconds, and will help you determine how sick you are with symptoms such as a fever or chills.
3. Stay in the shade and don’t move during the hottest part of the day
If you must be outdoors, stay in the shade, especially when the sun is at its strongest. Wear light-coloured, loose-fitting clothing. A wide-brimmed hat can shade the face and neck. It’s also important to know the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke and how to treat them.
There’s nothing wrong with taking a break from exercise
When it’s hot outside, it’s easy to overwork your body and not realize it. If you exercise, take frequent breaks in the shade and drink water to stay healthy and safe. Some sports require extra care in hot weather to avoid heat stroke and dehydration. Even water sports in the heat should not be underestimated.
Swimming, soccer, football, and other outdoor sports are particularly prone to these problems, so don’t overexert yourself in hot weather. If you’re doing a sport you love and you’re concerned about the conditions, there’s nothing wrong with taking a break. As a coach, if you’re concerned about the well-being of your players, you should tell them to rest and watch for signs of heat exhaustion or heat stroke.
In an SHTF scenario where you are on your way to your Bug out location for example, and you have this issue, it’s most likely because you have bad conditioning, and I recommend you begin training and getting in shape. If you are sick or have a problem walking, then maybe invest in transportation, such as a motorbike or a car. Survival and getting to your stash in our hideout are key to your long-term survival.
