Signs and Symptoms of Heat Stroke – Can We Do Anything About It?

14 Mar 2019

When the sun in shining and the temperature is high, these beautiful days have a menacing risk: heat stroke. Heat stroke is quite a serious medical condition, occurring when the body has become overheated and is unable to cool off without the aid of external forces. It can be a deadly condition, resulting in almost 250 deaths each year in the United States.

Causes and Symptoms

When heat stroke occurs, the body is 104 degrees Fahrenheit or above. This high temperature overwhelms the body, preventing normal temperature regulation processes from happening. When this is the case, organs may become dehydrated and shut down. If heat stroke is suspected, get care from a Memorial Village ER in Houston for emergency care near me.

There are two types of heat stroke: CHS and EHS. CHS, or classical heat stroke, occurs during heat waves when the body is constantly put under pressure by the environment. EHS, or exertional heat stroke, occurs when the body is exerted too much in weather that is humid and hot. Symptoms of EHS occur rapidly, while CHS takes several days to develop symptoms. Some symptoms of both of these include:

Heat cramps in the legs or abdomen
Dizziness
Fainting
Fatigue
Light headedness
Confusion
Nausea
Headache
Loss of consciousness
Vomiting
Unusual behavior

Treatment & Prevention

Treatment for a heat stroke must be administered immediately to avoid further consequences to the body. Call 911 or visit an urgent care in Houston for immediate help from medical professionals and keep yourself in a shaded area. Once help arrives, cooling techniques will be used to balance your temperature. This could include ice packs, evaporation, or cooling blankets.

To prevent heat stroke, wear loose clothing when working outside that allow for air flow. Keep clothing bright so that no heat I absorbed. Keep yourself hydrated and take regular breaks. You also avoid working during the hottest parts of the day.

You can enjoy the weather a lot more when you understand heat stroke and how to avoid damage from the sun’s rays. Keep this information in mind for the next hot and humid day.