Tips to sail through the summer months -By Dr Kushal Yadav

Heat stroke is a medical emergency. It is a serious form of heat injury that occurs along with dehydration. This subsequently leads to complications of the nervous system and proves fatal if the body temperature crosses 105 degrees Fahrenheit.

However, even those who live in places that lack air conditioning or good airflow, sitting in cars for longer duration or parked cars could be affected.  Children, senior citizens, sports persons, those commuting when the Sun is soaring high and the field workers are at greatest risk for heat stroke.

WTN tells you how to deal with summer wrath.

Causes

· Humid areas

· Less water intake

· High temperatures

· Excessive exercises

· Consumption of alcohol

· Remaining empty stomach

· Prolonged exposure to Sun

· Having oily and spicy foods

· Malfunctioning of sweat glands

Symptoms

· Diarrhea

· Rapid heartbeat

· Nausea & vomiting

· Absence of sweating

· Dryness of skin & mouth

· Confusion & disorientation

· Unconsciousness & seizures

· Throbbing head & body ache

· Rapid, but shallow breathing

· Muscular weakness & cramps

· High grade fever (without chills & rigors)

Treatment

· Move to a cool environment

· Drink fluids often and keep the body hydrated

· Avoid beverages containing alcohol or caffeine

· Bring the temperature down by cooling the body

· Wear lightweight, light-colored, loose-fitting clothes

· Remove the clothing and bathe in cold or at least in tap water

Precautions

· Use of onion

· Unripe mango juice

· Avoid direct exposure to sunlight

· Have buttermilk and coconut water

· Avoid coffee and tea just before going outside

· Consume plenty amount of water and other fluids

· Consume fruits & vegetables like watermelon, cucumber etc.

· Wear lightweight, light-coloured, loose-fitting clothing, and cover yourself well

Caution

· Wrapping the person suffering from heatstroke in wet towels or clothes can actually increase the body temperature.

· Check with your medical practitioner before increasing fluid consumption if you suffer from epilepsy or heart, kidney, or liver disease.

· Once recovered from stroke, the body is sensitive to high temperature for the next few days. So, play safe.

-windowtonews