Symptoms, Risk Factors, and What to Do for Heat Stroke
As spring approaches in the USA I am mindful of the warm hot summer days in the sun that will soon be coming. In most of the Southern states spring is very hot. It generally goes from winter to summer with cold, frigidThose hot summer days afford many outdoor activities and we may lose sight of the fact that high temperatures and excessive humidity can pose dangers. One of the dangers to be aware of is that of heat stroke. Heat stroke occurs as a result of long, extreme exposure to the sun. When a person does not sweat enough to cool down core temperature rises quickly and heatstroke occurs.
The first aid tips in this article in no way precludes immediate medical attention. Heat Stroke can be extremely damaging to you health. It progresses very quickly and is life threatening. While there are first aid measures that can be taken, heatstroke is a medical emergency. Time is crucial and help should be summoned immediately.
Who Are At Risk
Infants and the elderly are among the group at high risk for heatstroke. Also vulnerable are the obese, alcoholics, persons taking certain medications, or those with cardiovascular disease.
Another group that may be at risk is the summer athlete. As with any prolonged physical activity, summer sports can be potentially dangerous. Over motivated athletes can overheat by exerting themselves too much too quickly or trying to endure for too long a time.
The important thing to remember is that when high temperatures and humidity are present conditions are right for heat stroke. This is especially the case with summer sports. If you are going to be playing summer sports, it is wise to acclimate yourself to the conditions over a week or two, taking it slow and for short periods of time. Athletes that have been acclimated to the heat will sweat quicker, in greater volume, and over a wider body area, which will keep them cooler.




(Guest)