What is heatstroke?
It is a condition that occurs when people’s bodies get too hot and the central nervous system malfunctions.
How dangerous is it?
Heatstroke is a medical emergency. If you or someone you are with shows signs of heatstroke, it is extremely important to seek medical help immediately.
How do people get heatstroke?
Heatstroke is common when exercising in very hot and humid weather without drinking enough liquids (known as exertional heatstroke), but also occurs in anyone exposed to heat for too long (especially young children) and people with underlying chronic medical conditions (also known as classic heatstroke). Without timely and proper treatment, heatstroke can lead to death.
What are some of the symptoms?
The most common early signs of heatstroke are heat cramps and heat exhaustion. Heat cramps cause painful muscle cramps; heat exhaustion results in headaches, dizziness, nausea or vomiting, and makes you very thirsty or tired. Other symptoms of heatstroke include: a body temperature in excess of 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit); warm, red skin; a fast heart rate and rapid breathing; confusion; hallucinations; difficulty walking; seizures; or fainting.
Who is most at risk?
Infants, the elderly (over 65 years of age), athletes and outdoor workers are most at risk for heatstroke. The highest fatality rates from heat-related illness are in the elderly population and adults with chronic medical illnesses. Risk factors include: cardiovascular diseases; substance abuse; obesity or diabetes; cognitive disabilities; those taking medications that can impede thermoregulation; and individuals without home air conditioning, especially those with any of the above conditions.
What should you do if you are experiencing symptoms?
Cool your body down immediately by moving into the shade or an air-conditioned room, taking a cool shower, drinking non-alcoholic or caffeine-free fluids and removing extra clothing. I also recommend placing a cool cloth on the back of the neck and sitting in front of a fan.
How can I avoid getting heatstroke?
When the weather is hot and/or humid, stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids; water and sport drinks are best. Do not overexpose yourself to hot and humid environments (such as a hot car). Wearing loose, light-weight clothing and avoiding layering is also a smart move. If you have to exercise, try to do it early in the day — before it gets too hot — and take frequent breaks. And on hot summer days please use your air conditioner!
// Joseph Chang, MD is Chair of Emergency Medicine at Shanghai United Family Hospital & Clinics.
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