Heatstroke occurs as a result of significant overheating of the body. This happens in those cases when the heat balance is disturbed and the release of heat coming from outside and formed in the body is difficult for some reason. Overheating is predisposed to high ambient temperature, significant humidity, waterproof (rubberized, tarpaulin) clothing.
Sunstroke – a type of heatstroke, occurs when a person with an uncovered head is exposed to direct sunlight for a long time. Its occurrence is facilitated by the general overheating of the body, the symptoms are similar to heat stroke.
The main symptoms of heat stroke
general weakness, drowsiness, headache, dizziness. Then the face turns red, the body temperature rises, sometimes up to 40ºС, there are often dyspeptic disorders – diarrhea, vomiting. If by this time the causes that caused overheating have not been eliminated, the patient begins to hallucinate, delirium, then the victim loses consciousness, his face turns pale, the skin is cold and sometimes cyanotic, sweating is increased, cardiac activity is disturbed, the pulse is frequent and weak.
The main symptoms of sunstroke
Flushed face, terrible headache, dizziness. Then it begins to darken in the eyes, nausea is detected, in some cases vomiting. Sometimes there are bleeding from the nose and visual disturbances. If you do not provide assistance, the victim loses consciousness, he has shortness of breath, the pulse quickens, the activity of the heart is disturbed. Sunstroke is not often combined with skin burns: redness, blisters, etc.
Treatment for heat and sunstroke
The victim will need to be immediately taken out into the fresh air in the shade or in a cool, well-ventilated room, unbutton the collar of his clothes, and it is better to undress to the waist, lay on his back with his head raised. Put a cold compress on the head, wrap the body with a wet sheet or spray with cold water. Give the victim plenty of cool water to drink (preferably mineral water) with added sugar and a teaspoon of salt at the tip.
In case of respiratory distress, slightly moisten a cotton swab with ammonia and carefully bring it to the victim’s nose several times
Prevention of heat and sunstroke
It is necessary to prevent overheating, loss of water and salts by the body, in summer it is imperative to wear a bare headdress, mostly white; use an umbrella. In hot weather, it is necessary to increase the amount of water and salt in the daily diet. Kvass, fruit drink and especially green hot tea quench your thirst well. On hot days, it is not recommended to eat fatty high-calorie foods. Preference should be given to foods rich in carbohydrates and proteins.