The human body produces a huge amount of heat, which it should effectively cool. This process occurs through sweating and radiating heat through the skin. However, under conditions of high temperature, humidity and intense physical activity, the natural cooling system of the body may not do its job. This could lead to heat stroke - a life-threatening condition. In case of severe heat stroke, the probability of death reaches 30%.
Early symptoms of heat stroke
Heat stroke starts with harbingers, which are important to recognize in time. Among them:
Heavy thirst
Weakness and lethargy
Pale skin
Headache
Nausea and/or vomiting
Fast and frequent breathing (hyperventilation)
Irritability
If you notice these symptoms, you should immediately go into the shade, drink cool water and take a cold shower. It can prevent heat stroke.
Symptoms of severe heat stroke
If the overheating of the body was too strong, more serious symptoms may appear:
Sharp increase in body temperature (up to 40 degrees and above)
Severe headache
Vertigo
Skin redness
Insufficient sweating
Muscle weakness or spasms
Nausea and vomiting
Palpitation
Accelerated breathing
Confusion and increased anxiety
Cramping
When these symptoms occur, medical attention must be sought immediately, as heat stroke is life-threatening.
First aid in heat stroke
Before the arrival of the doctor, you can provide first aid to the victim:
Take him into the shadows
Give a cool drink
Remove excess clothing to increase heat transfer
Apply cold compresses to head, chest, groin and neck
It is important to remember that you should not completely cover the body with wet towels, as they can serve as insulating material and increase body temperature.