Beware of heatsroke this summer
During this summer season, another illness that the public should be wary of or take necessary precautions with is heatstroke.
The DOH advisory describes heatsroke as most severe form of heat illness when the body overheats and can't cool down. The body cannot take off the excessive heat from the body by sweating because of dehydration and or humid environment.
The illness may start with the following signs of heat exhaustion like warm, flushed skin, faintness, dizziness, weakness and headache which may progress to an emergency condition of heat stroke like very high fever of 41C, rapid heartbeat, convulsion, delirium and unconscious.
The DOH has the following advise to prevent heatstroke: limit the amount you spend outdoors; wear loose or comfortable clothes with light materials; wear a cap or a wide-brimmed hat or use umbrellas; and schedule heavy-duty activities for the beginning or end of day, when it's cooler. Also, drink plenty of water and avoid tea, coffee, soda and alcohol.
Some of the emergency measures that the DOH recommended in treating heatstroke include moving the persons to a shady spot or indoors and have them lie down with their legs elevated and if they are conscious, have them sip cool water. Also, remove clothing, apply cool water to the skin and fan them and apply ice packs to the armpits, wrists, ankles and groin.
According to DOH, heatstroke is a medical emergency and patient should be brought to the hospital immediately after instituting emergency measures. (PIA)