FAQ : sunstroke
Sunstroke (heatstroke) results when the body becomes dangerously overheated – a condition that can be fatal if not treated properly. Overexposure to hot sun light can result in sunstroke. Two main things happen: excessive sweating causes the body to become dehydrated and he mechanisms with which the body regulates its temperature to break down. Victims are usually people who are not acclimatized to hot weather. Babies and old people at most at risk. Other factors that increase susceptibility includes overeating, drinking too much alcohol, over strenuous exercise and wearing clothing that is too warm for the weather conditions. The first sign of impending heatstroke is often those of heat exhaustion. The person turns pale, the skin is cold and clammy. Other symptoms include profuse sweating, weakness, exhaustion, dizziness, headache, rapid pulse and vomiting. When heatstroke develops, the sweating usually slows down, and may stop altogether. The skin will become hot, dry and flushed, the pulse rapid and weak. Other symptoms include headache, and weakness and nausea. The body temperature may raise to 40 degree C (104 F) and finally, the victim may become unconscious. This is an emergent situation and the Doctor should be called. While waiting for the Doctor, first lie the patient down in a cool place. Remove clothing and wrap the patient in sheets or towels which have been soaked in cold water. Check the temperature and pulse every five minutes. Fan the patient continuously, an electric fan is idle, if the patient is conscious, give frequent sips of water. When the temperature drops down to 38 Degree C, remove the wet sheets and replace with dry ones.
Tags: diseases, facts on health
April 27th, 2009 at 1:10 pm
Great stuff. Nice to read some well written posts. A long way between them.