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Heat Stroke

Heat stroke is a heat related condition in which the body temperature is elevated abnormally to a temperature of 104 F (40 C) or above, that occurs due to long duration exposure to high temperature, thus showing many symptoms from mild to severe and if not treated promptly and can become fatal.  

Heat normally produce in the body as a result of metabolism and dissipate from the body by radiation of heat through the skin or by evaporation of sweat. In case of extreme heat, high humidity, or vigorous physical exercise under the sun, the body is unable to dissipate the required heat and thus body temperature rises, to up to 104 F (40.0 C) or higher. 

Heat stroke occurs due to many causes, which shows many symptoms from mild to severe. Some of the cause and symptoms are as follows: 

Who are at more Risk?

Age older than 65 and younger like elders than 15 years like infants or children are at more risk of heat stroke. The other includes athletes, animal in car, and outdoor workers are the groups at greatest risk for heat stroke. Heat-related illnesses in U.S. high school athletes, were seen in the majority of cases, occur in football players during, as reports suggested.

8 Preventive Measures for Heat Stroke

If any of the warning sign is experienced by an individual, it is important to take preventive measure immediately to avoid any fatal situation. The most important measures to prevent heat strokes are: 

• Cooling the victim is a critical step to treat heat stroke
• Avoid becoming dehydrated
• Use sunscreens before going outdoors.
• Avoid alcohol and caffeine before going for physical activities or exercise
• Take a short break to hydrate yourself
• Wear light weight, light colored and loose clothes
• Avoid vigorous physical activities in hot and humid weather.
• Never leave children, infants or pet in an unattended car.

The Bottom Line

Heat stroke, also known as Sun stroke, is a heat related illness, results in increased body temperature i.e. greater than 40.0 °C. Infants or young children, elders, athletes and pets are at greater risk. It is critically important to avoid staying in high temperature and keep hydrated, if staying for long hours under sunlight. It is also important for parents to understand about the medical dangers that can occur while leaving children and pets unattended in cars and advisable not to do this. Many preventive measures are there to keep yourself away from heat stroke.