Precautions to Take Against Sunstroke

One of the most serious illnesses encountered during summer is heat stroke. Particular attention should be paid to sun and hot weather exposure, especially for children and those with chronic diseases. Dr. Alev Özsarı, Internal Medicine Specialist at Liv Hospital, shared precautions that can be taken against heat stroke and what can be done in case of heat stroke.

What Are the Most Important Symptoms?

• High fever, headache, increased pulse rate, increased respiratory rate, low blood pressure, extreme fatigue, exhaustion.
• As sun exposure continues and remains untreated, painful cramps, cardiac arrhythmia, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, restlessness, convulsions, confusion of consciousness, coma and death may develop.

First Aid for Heat Stroke

• The person should immediately be taken to a cool, well-ventilated place, clothing should be removed, they should be laid flat, legs elevated, and cooled in a way that promotes evaporation from the skin.
• A lukewarm—not very cold—water bath can be given or cold compresses can be applied to the armpits, neck and buttocks.
• If conscious, plenty of water and salted buttermilk should be given. If there are signs such as confusion of consciousness or convulsions, the person should be taken to the hospital without delay.
• If muscle cramps persist for more than 1 hour despite rest in a cool place and ample fluid intake, a doctor should be consulted. Cooling the patient and providing adequate fluids are important.
• Fever-reducing medications are not helpful and may even be harmful if given.

Life-Threatening Danger May Occur

In mild heat stroke, there is low blood pressure, fever, and exhaustion. As it progresses, confusion of consciousness, headache, coma and death may result. If fluid loss and fever increase, loss of consciousness and neurological disorders appear, which may result in coma and death.

Precautions Against Heat Stroke

• First and foremost, one should not stay in the sun for extended periods.
• Plenty of water and mineral water should be consumed before thirst develops. (Those with high blood pressure should consume mineral water carefully)
• Attention should be paid to diet, heavy and fatty foods should be avoided, eating should be frequent with vegetables and fruits. Protein-rich foods should be reduced, and alcohol and caffeine should be avoided. Especially on hot days, alcohol and caffeine consumption negatively affect the body's temperature regulation mechanism.
• Attention should be paid to clothing; seasonally appropriate fabrics that will not excessively raise body temperature (such as cotton and linen) and that do not cause sweating should be preferred, and light-colored clothing should be worn. Wide-brimmed hats should be worn for sun protection.
• Between 11:00-15:00 hours, when ultraviolet rays are most intense, outdoor sports activities should be avoided.
• Frequent showers should be taken.