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What is the definition of heat stroke
I am moving to Australia this summer and I’ve heard that if one fails to administer proper care, then he or she can suffer from threatening heat strokes! Knowing the symptoms, definition, precaution and treatment of the same would be useful to me. So can someone tell me the definition of heat stroke?
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Heatstroke occurs when the body fails to regulate its own temperature and body temperature continues to rise, often to 40°C (104°F) or higher. Signs/symptoms of rapidly progressing heatstroke include: - Unconsciousness for longer than a few seconds. - Convulsion (seizure). - Signs of moderate to severe difficulty breathing. - A rectal temperature over 40°C (104°F) after exposure to a hot environment. - Confusion, severe restlessness, aggressive behaviour or anxiety. - Fast heart rate. - Sweating that may be heavy or may have stopped. - Skin that may be red, pale, hot, and dry, even in the armpits. - Severe vomiting and diarrhea. Precautions: - Wear lightweight, light-colored, loose-fitting clothing, and a wide-brimmed hat. - Use a sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 30 or more. - Drink extra fluids. To prevent dehydration, it's generally recommended to drink at least eight glasses of water, fruit juice, or vegetable juice per day. Because heat-related illness also can result from salt depletion, it may be advisable to substitute an electrolyte-rich sports drink for water during periods of extreme heat and humidity. - Take additional precautions when exercising or working outdoors.The general recommendation is to drink 24 ounces of fluid two hours before exercise, and consider adding another 8 ounces of water or sports drink right before exercise. During exercise, you should consume another 8 ounces of water every 20 minutes, even if you don't feel thirsty. - Reschedule or cancel outdoor activity. If possible, shift your time outdoors to the coolest times of the day, either early morning or after sunset. Treatment: Heatstroke is a medical emergency. Even with immediate treatment, it can be life-threatening or result in serious, long-term complications. You should call for medical assistance or for an ambulance when this occurs. These are the following first aid to be done: - Move the person into a cool place, out of direct sunlight. - Remove the person's unnecessary clothing, and place the person on his or her side to expose as much skin surface to the air as possible. - Cool the person's entire body by sponging or spraying cold water, and fan the person to help lower the person's body temperature. Watch for signs of rapidly progressing heatstroke, such as seizure, unconsciousness for longer than a few seconds, and moderate to severe difficulty breathing. - Apply ice packs in each armpit and on the back of the person's neck. - If a child has stopped breathing, begin rescue breathing. - Do not give aspirin or acetaminophen to reduce a high body temperature that can occur with heatstroke. These medicines may cause problems because of the body's response to heatstroke. - If the person is awake and alert enough to swallow, give the person fluids 1 liter to 2 liter over 1 to 2 hours for hydration. You may have to help. Make sure the person is sitting up enough so that he or she does not choke. Most people with heatstroke have an altered level of consciousness and cannot safely be given fluids to drink.
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Disclaimer : The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding your medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.