What is Heatstroke?
A heatstroke is a condition where the body’s temperature increases beyond 104 F due to prolonged exposure to heat. This is also known as a sun stroke, as it is a common condition during summer months. Prolonged exposure to sunlight or being in extremely hot environments for long periods can cause exertion on the body, thereby leading to sunstroke.
Heatstroke-related deaths have been on the rise in India due to rising incidences of heat waves during the summer months. States such as U.P., Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Odisha, and West Bengal are most affected by the rising incidences of heat strokes [1]. This makes it important to recognise the symptoms of heatstroke and be prepared to take immediate medical action during such an emergency.
Heat Stroke Symptoms
A heatstroke is a medical emergency, and it is vital to recognise these symptoms –
- High Body Temperature – A core body temperature which is more than 104°F is one of the first indicators of a heat stroke.
- Headache and Nausea – A person suffering from heatstroke may feel their head is throbbing and can also feel sick to their stomach.
- Rapid Breathing – The breathing can be fast and shallow during a heatstroke.
- Skin – Skin can be hot and dry to the touch if the heat stroke is caused by extremely hot weather. There is excessive sweating during heatstroke if caused by strenuous exercise.
- Racing Heart Rate – The heart may beat very fast when a person is experiencing a heat stroke.
- Mental State – The person may appear to be confused or irritated, may show signs of slurred speech and can also have seizures.
- Loss of consciousness – In severe cases, individuals can faint and lose consciousness.
In cases of extreme symptoms, such as loss of consciousness, racing heartbeat, a seizure, very high temperature and shortness of breath, it is important to seek medical attention. Call an emergency ambulance service at your location by dialling 108. MedCab’s fast ambulance services can also be contacted in such cases on the ambulance contact number at 18008-908-208.
What to do if Someone is Having Heatstroke?
If someone around you is having heatstroke, it is important to take measures to rapidly cool the body. The following steps should be taken when someone is having a heat stroke –
- Bring them indoors or to a shaded space.
- Rapid Cooling – Ensure rapid cooling by putting the person in a tub of cold water, spraying them with a garden hose, sponging them with cool water or placing ice packs and wet towels over their body.
- Hydration – Offer the individual chilled water or any non-caffeinated drink containing electrolytes.
- CPR – In cases where the individual has lost consciousness or stopped breathing, performing CPR is necessary.
- Avoid overcooling by stopping with the cooling steps when the body temperature reaches 100.4-102.2°F.
These steps can help in the quick management of heatstroke. It is important to continue monitoring the individual who suffered from heat stroke. Once the person has cooled, it is important they get a medical check-up. Immediate medical attention may also be required if the symptoms appear to be extreme.
Who is Susceptible to Heat Stroke?
The following are some of the risk factors for heatstroke,which can make some individuals more vulnerable than others –
- Age – Infants, young children and adults over the age of 65 can have compromised immune systems and be susceptible to heat strokes.
- Physical Exertion in High Temperature – Doing physically strenuous activities or exercises under the sun or during hot weather conditions can make one vulnerable to sunstroke.
- Excessive Clothing – Excessive clothing, such as heavy uniforms, worn during hot weather conditions, can impact the ability of the body to cool down, thereby making the individual vulnerable to heatstroke.
- Sudden Exposure to Hot Weather – Suddenly going outside under the harsh sunlight in early summers or cases of heatwaves can also cause heatstroke.
- Health Conditions – Certain health conditions, such as lung diseases, can cause a person to be at a greater risk of heatstroke.
- Medications – Individuals who take certain medications, such as medicines that rid the body of sodium and water, are more vulnerable to heat strokes. Individuals taking medications for blocking adrenaline, narrowing blood vessels, and reducing psychiatric symptoms should be careful.
To summarise, when someone around you is having a heatstroke, it is important to take immediate steps. These involve strategies for rapid cooling and hydration. It is also important to continue to monitor the individual, and if they continue to show concerning signs, such as rapid heartbeat and shortness of breath, immediate medical attention should be sought. It is important to wear loose-fitting clothing and stay hydrated during hot weather conditions to prevent the chances of heatstroke.
For getting emergency medical help with MedCab, such as during cases of heatstroke, MedCab’s fast ambulance services can be contacted by dialling the ambulance contact number 18008-908-208. MedCab provides 24/7 emergency ambulance services all across India and can also be booked over the MedCab mobile app. Save MedCab’s ambulance booking number and be prepared for handling any kind of medical emergencies!
References
Jain Y, Srivatsan R, Kollannur A, Zachariah A. Heatstroke: Causes, consequences and clinical guidelines. Natl Med J India 2018;31:224-227
FAQs
Do I need to go to the hospital for heat stroke?
Yes, it is important to go to a hospital and get medically checked when one has suffered a heatstroke. People around you should help you in cooling down and getting hydrated when waiting for medical help to arrive.
What are the main symptoms of a heat stroke?
The main symptoms of heatstroke include a core body temperature of 104°F or higher, confusion, flushed skin, rapid breathing and nausea.
How do I call an ambulance for a heat stroke?
In India, the ambulance contact number is 108. MedCab’s fast ambulance services can also be called by dialling 18008-908-208.
Why contact MedCab during emergencies such as heatstroke?
MedCab provides 24-hour emergency ambulance services all across India. MedCab sends fast ambulance services for medical emergencies, such as heatstroke. Besides this, trained paramedics come along with each ambulance to ensure the patient safely reaches the hospital.
