Heat Stroke: Chills And Shivers Under The Sun

Heat stroke is a life-threatening condition that occurs when the body overheats and can no longer regulate its temperature. It is usually caused by physical activity or overexertion in hot, humid conditions. Symptoms include confusion, seizures, loss of consciousness, and a body temperature of 104 degrees Fahrenheit or higher. While heat stroke typically causes hot, flushed, and dry skin, it can also be characterised by very pale skin. Although heat stroke is often preceded by heat exhaustion, which includes symptoms such as dizziness, nausea, and heavy sweating, it can occur suddenly without any prior signs of heat-related illness.

Although chills are not listed as a symptom of heat stroke, the condition is a result of the body overheating, and can be fatal if not treated.

Characteristics of Heat Stroke

Heat stroke symptoms

Heat stroke is a severe medical emergency and can be fatal if not addressed promptly. It is important to know the symptoms of heat stroke and other heat-related illnesses to be able to provide appropriate first aid. Heat stroke can occur suddenly, without any prior symptoms of heat exhaustion.

The symptoms of heat stroke include:

• Increased body temperature (103°F or higher)
• Hot, flushed, red, dry, or damp skin
• Loss of consciousness (passing out)
• Confusion, delirium, dizziness, or vertigo
• Nausea or vomiting
• Throbbing headache
• Rapid and strong pulse
• Fainting

If you or someone you know is experiencing any of these symptoms, call 911 or get the victim to a hospital immediately. While waiting for medical assistance, move the person to a cooler environment, preferably an air-conditioned room or shaded area. Help reduce their body temperature with cool, wet cloths or a cool bath. Do not give them fluids.

It is worth noting that heat stroke can occur without prior heat exhaustion symptoms, but heat exhaustion and heat cramps are still possible precursors. Heat exhaustion symptoms include muscle aches and cramps, confusion or anxiety, cold, clammy skin, heavy sweating, and a slow or weakened heartbeat. Heat cramps are severe, sudden muscle cramps that typically occur in the hands, calves, or feet and are often accompanied by heavy sweating.

Heat stroke vs heat exhaustion

Heat exhaustion and heat stroke are two serious conditions that can occur when the body is exposed to high temperatures. While both are heat-related illnesses, there are important distinctions to be made between the two in terms of their causes, symptoms, and treatments.

Heat exhaustion occurs when the body loses excess amounts of water and salt, typically through sweating. It can be caused by overexercising or working strenuously in hot weather or a heated room, where the body may struggle to produce enough sweat to cool down. The early warning signs of heat exhaustion include nausea, light-headedness, fatigue, muscle cramping, and dizziness. It is important to act on these warning signs as soon as possible. To treat heat exhaustion, one should move to a cooler place, take off any tight or extra clothing layers, drink plenty of fluids, and take a cold shower or use cold compresses to help lower body temperature.

Heat stroke, on the other hand, is a more severe condition and is considered a medical emergency. It occurs when the body is unable to control its internal temperature, and can come on suddenly without any prior symptoms of heat exhaustion. Symptoms of heat stroke include an increased body temperature (103°F or higher), dizziness, hot and dry skin, confusion or delirium, and loss of consciousness. If heat stroke is suspected, it is crucial to call for emergency medical help immediately. While waiting for medical assistance, move the person to a cooler place and use cold compresses to try to lower their body temperature. Do not give them any fluids.

In summary, while both heat exhaustion and heat stroke are serious conditions, heat stroke is the more severe of the two and requires immediate medical attention. The key difference lies in the body's ability to regulate its temperature—in heat exhaustion, the body is losing too much water and salt, whereas in heat stroke, the body has completely lost the ability to control its internal temperature. Recognizing the symptoms and taking appropriate action is crucial in both cases to prevent complications and ensure a full recovery.

Heat stroke prevention

Heat stroke is a dangerous condition that requires immediate medical attention. It can occur suddenly, without any prior symptoms of heat exhaustion. Therefore, it is important to take precautionary measures to prevent heat-related injuries, especially during the summer. Here are some detailed instructions for preventing heat stroke:

Stay in Cool Environments

Try to stay in an air-conditioned place as much as possible. If your home does not have air conditioning, spend a few hours in a shopping mall, public library, or a designated heat-relief shelter in your area. Taking cool showers or baths can also help lower your body temperature.

Wear Appropriate Clothing

Choose lightweight, loose-fitting clothing made from breathable fabrics. Avoid wearing excess clothing or tight-fitting garments that can trap heat and prevent your body from cooling properly.

Stay Properly Hydrated

Drink plenty of fluids, especially water, to maintain adequate hydration. Do not wait until you feel thirsty to drink. Avoid sugary, alcoholic, and very cold drinks, as these can negatively impact your hydration levels. If you're engaging in physical activity or spending time outdoors in the heat, be sure to increase your fluid intake accordingly.

Protect Yourself from the Sun

When outdoors, protect your skin and head by wearing a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses. Apply sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30, and reapply it every two hours or more frequently if you're swimming or sweating profusely. Remember that sunburn impairs your body's ability to cool down, so take the necessary precautions to avoid sunburn.

Adjust Gradually to Hot Weather

If you're not accustomed to hot environments or strenuous activity in the heat, start slowly and gradually increase your exposure. It can take several weeks for your body to adjust to high temperatures, so be mindful of your body's limits and don't overexert yourself.

Be Mindful of Risk Factors

Certain individuals are at a higher risk of heat-related illnesses, including infants, young children, adults over 65, overweight people, and those with pre-existing medical conditions or taking certain medications. If you fall into any of these categories, take extra precautions and seek cooler environments. Additionally, keep a close eye on your pets, as they are also susceptible to heat-related issues and require ample fresh water and shade.

By following these preventive measures, you can significantly reduce the risk of heat stroke and enjoy the warm weather safely. Remember to stay vigilant about the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke, and don't hesitate to seek medical attention if necessary.

Heat stroke treatment

Heat stroke is a serious condition that requires immediate medical attention. While waiting for medical care, there are some first aid treatments that can be administered to help lower the person's body temperature and improve their comfort.

If the person is conscious, they should be moved to a cool, shady area, and any excessive clothing should be removed to aid heat loss through the skin. The person should be encouraged to drink water if they are able to, to help rehydrate their body. Spraying the person with cool water and fanning them can help to further reduce their body temperature through evaporation.

If the person is unconscious, they should be placed in the recovery position and their head, neck, and trunk should be elevated. Cool, wet towels or ice packs can be placed on their neck, armpits, and groin to assist in reducing their core temperature. If possible, fully immerse them in an ice bath.

It is important to continue these cooling measures until the person's body temperature drops below 102.5°F (39.2°C). However, it is crucial not to overcool the person, especially if they are elderly, as this can also be dangerous. Aim to reduce the body temperature gradually.

Heat stroke is a medical emergency, and even with treatment, the person may experience permanent central nervous system injury or other serious complications. Therefore, it is vital to seek immediate medical attention if heat stroke is suspected.

Heat stroke risk factors

Heat stroke is a serious form of heat injury and is considered a medical emergency. It is caused by prolonged exposure to high temperatures, usually in combination with dehydration, which leads to a failure of the body's temperature control system. While heat stroke mainly affects people over 50, it can also impact young, healthy athletes. Here are some key risk factors for developing heat stroke:

Age

Infants, children up to four years old, and adults over 65 are at a higher risk of heat stroke as they adjust to heat more slowly than other people. Older people who live in homes without proper cooling mechanisms, such as air conditioning or good airflow, are particularly vulnerable.

Health Conditions

Underlying health issues can increase the risk of heat stroke. These include heart, lung, or kidney disease, obesity or being underweight, high blood pressure, diabetes, mental illness, sickle cell trait, alcoholism, sunburn, and any conditions that cause fever.

Medications

Certain medications can make individuals more susceptible to heat stroke. These include antihistamines, diet pills, diuretics, sedatives, tranquilizers, stimulants, seizure medications (anticonvulsants), heart and blood pressure medications, and psychiatric drugs such as antidepressants and antipsychotics. Illegal drugs like cocaine and methamphetamine are also associated with an increased risk.

Dehydration

Dehydration is a significant risk factor for heat stroke. It is crucial to drink enough water, especially in hot and humid conditions. The recommendation is to consume at least eight glasses of water or other fluids per day. During periods of extreme heat and physical activity, it is essential to increase fluid intake accordingly.

Environmental Factors

Living in urban areas, particularly during prolonged heat waves with stagnant atmospheric conditions and poor air quality, can increase the risk of heat stroke. The "heat island effect" in cities contributes to higher nighttime temperatures, making it challenging for the body to cool down.

Exercise and Physical Activity

Intense or prolonged physical exercise, especially in high temperatures and humidity, can lead to heat stroke. This is particularly true if adequate rest breaks are not taken, if there is limited access to fluids, or if individuals push themselves too hard due to peer or organizational pressure.

Frequently asked questions