What You Need to Know About Sunstroke

Specialist Dr. Ferit Sarı from Egepol Hastaneleri provides information about frequently asked questions regarding heat stroke. Heat stroke is a serious condition frequently seen in those who spend long periods in hot weather and direct sunlight during summer months. Treatment of this problem, which can even pose a vital risk, involves critical details. Heat stroke is a life-threatening condition that causes serious adverse effects in the human body. We cannot speak of its effects only on the skin. Heat stroke should not be confused with sunburn. Heat stroke generally refers to a widespread disorder affecting the entire body. It can be said that children and elderly people are particularly susceptible to this risk. Those with heart and vascular diseases, diabetes patients, those with nervous system disorders generally fall within the risk group. Every patient whose doctors have forbidden sun exposure is also defined as being within the risk group. Heat stroke is not merely a condition that the risk group should avoid. Even those without any medical conditions can face this problem if exposed to this effect for extended periods. Direct exposure to sunlight is therefore inadvisable. Direct sunlight, through its radioactive effects, can cause effects on the skin and entire body. Symptoms of heat stroke include headache, nausea, vomiting, high fever, inability to sweat, nervous system disorders and loss of consciousness. To protect against heat stroke, one should avoid going outside during peak sun hours, take sun protection measures and increase fluid consumption.

Heat Stroke and Risk Factors

Heat stroke is a serious condition that can develop in individuals exposed to direct sunlight for extended periods in hot weather. In particular, children, elderly people, those with chronic diseases, overweight or cachectic individuals, cancer patients, those with psychiatric disorders, persons over 65 years of age and pregnant women are groups at risk of heat stroke. Exposure to high temperatures, excessive food consumption, wearing heavy clothing and excessive alcohol consumption can also trigger heat stroke.

Symptoms and Dangers

Symptoms of heat stroke include headache, nausea, vomiting, high fever, inability to sweat, nervous system disorders, psychological disturbances and loss of consciousness. Heat stroke cases, which can be dangerous in advanced stages, carry a serious risk of loss of life and can cause permanent damage to the nervous system. For this reason, measures must be taken without delay when symptoms of heat stroke appear.

Prevention Methods

To protect against heat stroke, one should avoid going outside as much as possible during peak sun hours (10.00-16.00). Sun protection accessories such as sunglasses, hats and umbrellas should be worn and sunscreen creams must be applied. Consuming at least 2.5-3 litres of fluid per day, preferring easily digestible light foods and taking lukewarm showers are also important.

First Aid

In case of heat stroke, the person should immediately be moved to a cool place and tight clothing removed. To reduce body temperature, cloth dampened with cold water can be placed on the head, chest and armpits, or cooling should be attempted with cooling agents. To direct blood circulation towards the head, the person's feet should be elevated and massage applied to the arms and legs. The use of fever-reducing medication may also be necessary.