How to Avoid a Heat Stroke

A heat wave has hit the region this week and the weather is unbearable. Egypt’s Ministry of Health reported that over 20 people died of heat-related causes after temperatures soared, while nearly 30 were hospitalized due to heat exhaustion.

With temperatures expected to remain high throughout the week, it’s important to be aware of heat-related health issues. Heat stroke is more serious than heat exhaustion and occurs when people are exposed to high temperatures for a long time together with dehydration.

Some of the symptoms of heat stroke are: fainting; throbbing headache; red, hot and dry skin; nausea; vomiting; rapid heartbeat and breathing; confusion or disorientation; lack of sweat despite heat; seizures; and loss of consciousness or coma.

Here are some tips to prevent a heat stroke:

• On days with very high temperatures, try to stay indoors in an air-conditioned area.

• If you have to go out, wear very light clothing and a hat.

• Stay hydrated, especially if you decide to exercise. Drink electrolyte-rich drinks, like Gatorade.

• Use sunscreen with SPF 30 or more.

• Monitor the color of your urine as an indicator of dehydration. The darker the color, the more fluids your body needs.

• If you don’t have an air conditioning, draw your curtains during the hottest part of the day. At night, you can create cross ventilation by opening two opposing windows.

In case of a heat stoke:

Take the person to the nearest hospital; any delay may be fatal. If you are waiting for help, take off the person’s unnecessary clothing. Keep them in an air-conditioned or shaded area. Try to lower the body temperature with a shower, wet sponge, or ice packs on the armpits, back, neck and groin.

WE SAID THIS: Don’t miss How to Survive a Heat Wave.