DOH 6 cautions public against heat stroke
The Department of Health, Region VI urges the Ilonggos to be extra careful during summertime, specially of heat stroke.
The DOH 6 disclosed in a health advisory that heat stroke is a medical emergency, and the patient must be brought immediately to the hospital after instituting emergency measures.
Heat stroke is a 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 DOH health advisory said.
Here are the causes of heat stroke: the risk of heat stroke goes way up in hot and humid weather; vigorous exercise in hot weather; dehydration; and too much direct exposure to the sun.
Heat stroke may start with the following signs of heat exhaustion: warm, flushed skin; faintness; dizziness; weakness; and headache.
The DOH said that it may progress to an emergency condition of heatstroke, like very high fever of 41°C; rapid heartbeat; convulsion; delirium; and unconscious.
For prevention, the DOH suggested the following: limit the amount of time you spend outdoors; drink plenty of water, avoid tea, coffee, soda and alcohol; wear a wide-brimmed hat and long-sleeved clothing when outdoors; and schedule heavy-duty activities for the beginning or end of the day, when it's cooler.
For treatment: Move the person to a shady spot or indoors and have them lie down with their legs elevated. If they are conscious, have them sip cool water; remove clothing, apply cool water to the skin and fan them; and apply ice packs to the armpits, wrists, ankles and groin. (PIA/T.Villavert)