Symptoms, how to prevent it and what to do before an emergency | Viamed Salud
The high summer temperatures are not only uncomfortable; They can also put our health at risk. One of the most serious dangers associated with extreme heat is heatstrokea medical emergency that can affect anyone, especially children, elders and people with chronic diseases. We appreciate the collaboration of Dr. Carmen Sánchez-Celaya del Pozo, a specialist in Emergency and Family Medicine at the Viamed Montecanal Hospital in Zaragoza, in the elaboration of this content.
In this article we explain what a heat stroke is, how to recognize your symptomswhat to do before an affected person and, most importantly, how to prevent it. We also answer frequent questions as if it can occur without direct exposure to the sun or if it affects certain groups more.
What is a heat blow?
He heatstroke It is a serious form of hyperthermia, in which the body loses its ability to regulate temperature and this rises above 40 ° C. It usually occurs when a person is exposed to very high environmental temperatures for a long time, especially in combination with physical effort, high humidity and lack of hydration.
It is a potentially deadly condition if it does not act quickly.
Who are more risk?
Although anyone can suffer a heat stroke, there are especially vulnerable groups:
- Young children
- Older peopleespecially over 65 years
- People with chronic diseases (cardiovascular, renal, respiratory)
- Patients in treatment with certain medicationsas diuretics or antidepressants
- Outdoor workers or athletes
- Overweight or obesity
Heat stroke symptoms
Recognizing symptoms can quickly make a difference:
- Very high body temperature (more than 40 ° C)
- Hot, red and dry skin (without sweat)
- Intense headache
- Dizziness or confusion
- Nausea and vomiting
- Quick heart rate
- Seizures
- Loss of consciousness
Before any of these signs, you have to act immediately.
What to do before a heat blow?
If a person shows heat stroke signs:
- Call Emergencies (112).
- Translate to a cool and shaded place.
- Remove excess clothes.
- Apply cold compresses in neck, armpits and English.
- Ventila with air or fan.
- If you are aware and can swallow, Ephréro water in small sips.
- Do not unleashed antipyretic medications (as paracetamol).
Rapid intervention is vital to avoid serious complications or even death.
Difference between heat stroke and heat exhaustion
It is important to distinguish between a Heat exhaustion (milder and more common) and a heat stroke (more serious):
Heat hitting
The best way to avoid this situation is to adopt preventive measures, especially during heat waves:
- Hydraceate frequentlyeven if you are not thirsty.
- Avoid going out in the central hours of the day (12: 00-17: 00).
- Wear light clothes, light colors and breathable fabrics.
- Protect yourself from the sun With hat, glasses and sun cream.
- It reduces physical effort in hot environments.
- Ventilate spaces and use fans or air conditioning.
- Never leave children or pets in the carnot even for a few minutes.
Heat in children
Children have an immature thermoregulator system, so they are especially sensitive to high temperatures.
Signs of alarm in children:
- Irritability
- Crying without tears
- Very hot skin
- Sleepiness or decay
Specific recommendations:
- You saw the child with light clothes.
- Make sure you drink liquids frequently.
- Avoid direct exposure to the sun.
- It monitors especially in outdoor activities.
Heat stroke
Older adults can lose the perception of heat and have less sweating capacity, on the other hand it is frequent that the elderly do not have thirst perception so they do not hydrate enough, which increases the risk of dehydration, facilitating the heat stroke without necessarily being exposed to the sun, exposes them to the heat stroke even in poorly ventilated indoor.
Tips:
- Keep the home fresh and well ventilated.
- Avoid drinks with caffeine or alcohol.
- Strengthen hydration, even without thirst.
- Control body temperature if you feel discomfort.
Can a heat stroke occur?
Yes. Although the name suggests sun exposure, heat stroke can occur in closed and poorly ventilated places, especially if there is high humidity and lack of hydration. It can also occur when exercising in hot environments or when staying in a closed car.
Frequent questions (FAQS)
What is a heat blow?
It is a medical emergency that occurs when the body temperature rises above 40 ° C and the body loses its ability to cool.
What are the first symptoms?
Dizziness, hot skin, lack of sweat, confusion, vomiting and, in severe cases, loss of consciousness.
Who does it affect more?
Children, older people, patients with chronic diseases, and who exercise or work in the sun.
Can you avoid heat stroke?
Yes. With good hydration, proper clothing, avoiding the sun in critical hours and maintaining ventilated spaces.
The heat blow only occurs in the sun?
No. It can also happen in closed and hot spaces without ventilation, or when doing intense exercise.
What to do if someone suffers a heat stroke?
Take it to a cool place, apply cold in the body, offer water if you are aware, and call emergencies immediately.
Can the heat blow be deadly?
Yes. If it is not treated in time, it can cause brain damage, multiorgan failure and death.
