HEATSTROKE
Also known as sunstroke, is a medical emergency condition often occurring during hot weather due to extreme heat, leading to a rapid increase in body temperature. When the body is unable to cool down efficiently, if left untreated, it can significantly increase the risk of death. Individuals at high risk include those working in hot conditions and athletes exercising outdoors.
Patients with heatstroke typically present with initial symptoms such as high fever (temperature above 40°C), dizziness, headache, nausea, confusion, agitation, or hallucinations, and may progress to unconsciousness.
When suspecting heatstroke, immediate efforts should be made to rapidly reduce the patient's body temperature using available methods, such as applying cold water to the body and using fans to enhance evaporation or applying ice packs to the forehead, neck, and armpits before reaching the hospital or emergency room.
Preventive measures to avoid heat-related illnesses include staying well-hydrated by drinking plenty of water, avoiding alcoholic beverages as they increase urine output, leading to dehydration, wearing lightweight, loose-fitting clothing, and avoiding excessive outdoor activities during the hottest times of the day. Additionally, it's important to avoid prolonged exposure to intense sunlight.