Heatwave Warning in 2024: Ways to Tackle Heat Strokes
Keeping cool becomes essential as summer temperatures rise in many parts of the world, with some even breaking all-time heatwave records. Fortunately, whether or not you have access to air conditioning, there are efficient ways to combat the heat. The danger of heat-related disorders, especially heat exhaustion and heat stroke, is one of the main health issues associated with hot weather. Heatstroke is a condition caused by your body overheating, usually as a result of prolonged exposure to or physical exertion in high temperatures. This most serious form of heat injury, heatstroke, can occur if your body temperature rises to 104 F (40 C) or higher. The condition is most common in the summer months. Heatstroke signs and symptoms include: High body temperature. A core body temperature of 104 F (40 C) or higher, is the main sign of heatstroke. Altered mental state or behavior. Confusion, agitation, slurred speech, irritability, delirium, seizures and coma can all result from heatstroke. Alteration in sweating. In heatstroke brought on by hot weather, your skin will feel hot and dry to the touch. However, in heatstroke brought on by strenuous exercise, your skin may feel dry or slightly moist. Nausea and vomiting. You may feel sick to your stomach or vomit. Flushed skin. Your skin may turn red as your body temperature increases. Rapid breathing. Your breathing may become rapid and shallow. Racing heart rate. Your pulse may significantly increase because heat stress places a tremendous burden on your heart to help cool your body. Headache. Your head may throb. Protect Yourself & Your Loved Ones ~ (Source: Google Images) What causes heat stroke? Heat stroke is primarily caused by prolonged exposure to high temperatures and excessive heat, leading to the body’s inability to regulate its core temperature. There are two types of heat stroke ~ Exertional heat stroke (EHS): It is induced by strenuous physical activity in hot and humid environments. EHS can affect young, healthy individuals who are not accustomed to high temperatures or do not maintain sufficient hydration during physical exertion. Non-exertional heat stroke (NEHS): Also known as classic or environmental heat stroke, NEHS is not directly related to physical activity and typically occurs when individuals are exposed to high temperatures or enclosed spaces without ventilation. This type of heat stroke can affect people of all ages, with senior citizens, infants, and those with underlying health conditions, such as diabetes, particularly vulnerable. Use Effective Measures To Make Your Days Cooler ~ ( Source: Google Images) Ways To Combat Heatwaves Causing Heatstrokes ~ Be prepared ~ Know how hot and humid it is going to get today, this week, and this month to help plan outside activities. Keep an emergency kit at home that contains oral rehydration salt (ORS) packets, a thermometer, water bottles, towels or cloths to wet for cooling, a handheld fan or mister with batteries, and a checklist to identify and treat symptoms of heat stress. Know how to get help. Note down the contact information for the nearest health care provider or ambulance/transport services. Keep your home cool ~ When possible, close the curtains during the hottest parts of the day and open windows at night time to cool down the house. Use fans and coolers if available. Stay out of the heat ~ Do not go outside during the hottest times of the day if you can avoid it. Try to arrange your activities earlier or later in the day when it is cooler. When outside, wear sunscreen and try to stay in the shade or use hats and umbrellas for protection. Stay cool and hydrated ~ Drink water at regular intervals before you are thirsty. Overdressing in the heat can make you dehydrated and hotter faster, so wear light and loose clothes. Cotton is ideal during hot days to help reduce heat rashes and absorb sweating. Similarly, cotton bed sheets are recommended over non-breathable materials. Never leave anyone in a parked car ~ This is a common cause of heat-related deaths in children. When parked in the sun, the temperature in your car can rise 20 degrees F (more than 11 C) in 10 minutes. It's not safe to leave a person in a parked car in warm or hot weather, even if the windows are cracked or the car is in shade. When your car is parked, keep it locked to prevent a child from getting inside. Be cautious if you're at increased risk ~ If you take medications or have a condition that increases your risk of heat-related problems, avoid the heat and act quickly if you notice symptoms of overheating. If you participate in a strenuous sporting event or activity in hot weather, make sure there are medical services available in case of a heat emergency. Suggestive Takeaway ~ The necessity of immediate action against climate change: In the end, Heat Stroke is a call to action on climate change, stressing the urgency with which citizens, groups, and governments must address and lessen the effects of global warming. In order to address the climatic catastrophe and save the earth for future generations.
