In summer, compared to winter, when the temperature is lower, or the changing season, when the daily temperature difference is severe, health care is often neglected. However, it can be said that there are countless factors affecting health management, such as bacterial infection due to deterioration of food and unexpected situations that occur during vacations or outdoor activities. In particular, the intense heat wave and the stronger sunlight compared to other seasons act as an important part that threatens health in summer. Heatstroke is one of the heat diseases that are highly likely to occur in summer, and refers to a state in which the core body temperature rises from 37°C to 40°C due to exposure to a high-temperature environment. The main cause of heat stroke is that the blood volume decreases when adequate moisture is not supplied, or when water is replenished with a low-concentration solution, compared to sweating a lot due to prolonged exposure to a high-temperature environment. Like heat stroke, heat stroke, which is one of the heat diseases, is known to be caused by poor heat dissipation due to a combination of not only hot sunlight, but also a high temperature environment and high humidity. It is known that heat stroke is caused by long-time outdoor activities in summer, and in the case of heat stroke, the frequency of work done outside is high, and the incidence rate is known to be high in occupational groups working in environments with high temperature and humidity. Now, let’s take a closer look at the main symptoms of heat stroke and various methods that can help you cope with it and prevent it.
The main symptoms of heat stroke
When heat stroke occurs, the heart rate increases and the body temperature rises above 41°C. According to these physical changes, sweating increases, and symptoms such as dizziness, headache, and tinnitus may also occur. In addition, nausea and vomiting, abdominal pain, loss of appetite, etc. may appear, and there may be some symptoms of mental confusion. In most cases, this type of heat stroke usually returns to normal after 30 minutes if you take a cool break and rest, leaving no complications. However, when symptoms of heat stroke occur, if left unattended without prompt first aid, the risk of heat stroke increases. Heat stroke can cause problems such as convulsions and seizures, loss of consciousness, and cognitive decline. In particular, it can cause a bigger problem for people with underlying diseases, children, and the elderly. Therefore, if you belong to a person or occupational group with a lot of outdoor activities in the summer, it is important to familiarize yourself with various management methods to prepare for it and take proper prevention and management. Heatstroke Coping and Prevention Habits
1. Appropriate first aid measures
In the event of heat stroke, if you do not take appropriate measures, it can lead to life-threatening heat stroke, so if you develop any of these symptoms, you should move to a cool place immediately. Lie on your back with your legs higher than your head, and if your clothes are thick, take them off to keep them as comfortable and cool as possible. And if there is unnecessary equipment, remove it, and use cold water, a wet towel, or cold water to quickly lower the body temperature. In addition, if the pulse is stable and the consciousness is clear, drinking water or electrolyte drinks will help relieve symptoms, but it is not recommended if you are vomiting or nauseated. After a certain amount of recovery, you can receive additional tests and treatment through a visit. You can check your core body temperature and check your pulse and respiration, blood pressure, serum sodium, potassium, blood sugar, creatine, etc. If the electrolyte and other findings are normal and the treatment responds well, adequate fluid supply and rest are given for 1 to 2 days. However, if you have severe electrolyte abnormalities or have chronic diseases, children or the elderly, if treatment does not go well within a few hours, you will be hospitalized for treatment.
2. Refrain from going out in strong sunlight
In order to prevent sunstroke, it is recommended to limit outdoor activities and going out as much as possible during times of strong sunlight. Even if you go out, you should minimize the situation where you may be exposed to the sun for a long time by using a hat or a parasol. It is also recommended to wear loose-fitting clothing to dissipate heat well, and avoid wearing tight-fitting clothing if possible. In addition, when exercising outdoors, it is recommended to use it early in the morning or in the evening in the hot summer, and if you are in a job group that spends a lot of time outdoors, you should rest in a cool place in between.
3. Drink plenty of water
It is advisable to drink plenty of water during hot weather. You should drink plenty of water before being exposed to a high temperature environment or before feeling thirsty, and it is recommended to consume electrolyte-rich ionic drinks and food to replenish sweat. In addition, eating a balanced diet of foods with high water content such as cucumbers, watermelons, melons, and peaches helps to efficiently supply water, vitamins and minerals, helping to maintain homeostasis in the body and prevent heat stroke. However, it is recommended to be careful because excessive consumption of beverages and alcohol with a high caffeine content in a hot environment can further promote the excretion of water and increase the risk of heat stroke.