Hot Weather: How To Avoid Heat Stroke
What Is Heat Stroke?
Getting your head around what heat stroke is really matters for all of us, particularly when the weather heats up. Heat stroke isn’t just feeling a bit too warm; it’s a serious condition that happens when your body can’t keep its temperature in check anymore. This could be because you’ve been out in the sun too long or pushing yourself too hard in high temperatures. When this happens, your body temperature can shoot up quickly, and if you don’t sort it out fast, it could lead to severe health problems, or worse, it could be fatal.
Let’s delve into what heat stroke is, how to avoid it, and treatments for heat stroke before medical help arrives.
Common Symptoms of Heat Stroke
Recognising the symptoms of heat stroke is the first step in preventing it. The primary symptom is a core body temperature that soars above 40°C, which may be accompanied by changes in cognitive function or behaviour. Individuals may exhibit confusion, altered mental status or slurred speech, signalling the body’s distress under excessive heat. Furthermore, sweating irregularity, such as skin feeling hot and dry or excessive sweating, along with rapid breathing and an accelerated heartbeat, are indicative of the body’s struggle to cope with the heat.
How to Avoid Heat Stroke Indoors and Outdoors
Heat stroke can happen whether you’re indoors or outdoors, with a higher likelihood during hot and humid weather. Engaging in work or exercise in hot environments with poor air circulation and inadequate hydration increases the risk of heat stroke.
The best way to avoid heat stroke is to refrain from going out during the hottest hours of the day and to stay well-hydrated with plain drinking water. Consider getting a water purifier for your household to save yourself the hassle of buying water outside. If it’s unavoidable, apply sunscreen and wear sun-protective gear like hats and light clothing when going outside. Consume light, nutritionally-balanced meals and eat more fruits rich in water content, such as watermelon slices and cucumbers, to cool down.
How to Treat Heat Stroke If It Happens?
Immediately call for medical help without delay. In the meantime, focus on cooling the affected person down. Start by removing excess clothing so their body can cool down better. Then, move the person indoors or under the shade to avoid further exposure to the sun’s heat. Utilise whatever means available to cool them down, such as applying an ice pack to their neck or armpits, using a wet towel to dampen their skin or even giving them a cool shower if possible. These actions can help lower their body temperature while awaiting professional medical assistance.
Can Drinking Water Prevent Heat Stroke?
Absolutely. In fact, when a person is dehydrated and can’t sweat enough to cool their body, their internal temperature can rise to dangerously high levels, which can lead to heat stroke. If you’re not sure whether you’re dehydrated, read our article “What Are The Symptoms of Dehydration In Your Body?”
Stay Cool and Hydrated with the CUCKOO GRANDE Water Purifier
Having access to safe and pure drinking water is important to keep you and your loved ones hydrated and healthy, especially during hot weather. Our CUCKOO GRANDE water purifier features a 6-Stage Filtration System with 3 filters to remove the tiniest of particles, harmful bacteria and viruses! Starting from as low as 5°C, everyone can enjoy a nice cold glass of water to beat the heat, whether through a full purchase or by opting for our rental plan, from as low as RM110 per month and includes maintenance service.
Let’s prioritise safety and well-being by staying informed, prepared and hydrated during hot weather, safeguarding ourselves and our loved ones against the perils of heat stroke.