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Summer in the Philippines is notorious for high temperatures that make most people sweat buckets, or worse, suffer heat stroke.

Heat stroke is defined by the Department of Health as the most severe form of heat illness wherein the body overheats and can't cool down by sweating because of dehydration.

Without quick action to lower body temperature, a heat stroke can cause the brain and vital organs to swell, and may possibly result in permanent damage, and even death.

Know the causes of heat stroke/Source: Pexels

Causes and risk factor of heat stroke

Heat stroke has mainly three known causes:

• Prolonged and direct exposure to the sun or high temperatures
• Dehydration
• Vigorous exercise/activity

Who are at most risk of suffering from heat stroke?

1. The young ones and the elderly

The central nervous system of very young people and adults aged 65 and above is not at its ideal state. For the young ones, it's underdeveloped; while for the elderly it's already deteriorating. And a weak central nervous system lessens your body's ability to cope with changes in body temperature. Thus, making it hard for you to stay hydrated.

2. Those who conduct activities under hot weather

Being exposed to hot weather, whether it's sudden or for a prolonged period, can lead to a heat stroke. So, people who participate in the military trainings, construction work, and sports events such as football or running events are at a greater risk to suffer heat stroke.

3. People taking certain medications

According to Mayo Clinic, some medications affect the body's ability to respond to heat and stay hydrated. Thus, people taking vasoconstrictors, beta blockers, diuretics, and antidepressants or antipsychotics should take extra precaution during hot weather. Moreover, stimulants for ADHD and other illegal stimulants such as amphetamines and cocaine can make you more susceptible to heat stroke.

4. People with underlying health conditions

People who are obese and those who have heart and lung diseases are part of the high-risk group for heat stroke.

Look out for the signs and symptoms of heat stroke/Source: Pexels

Signs and symptoms

So, how can you tell if someone is experiencing heat stroke? Here are the things you should watch out for:

1. Red, hot, dry skin
2. Body temperature of 40 degrees Celsius or 104 degrees Fahrenheit
3. Lack of sweating despite the heat
4. Intense thirst or dehydration
5. Throbbing headache
6. Rapid heartbeat (can be strong or weak)
7. Rapid, shallow breathing
8. Muscle weakness or cramps
9. Nausea and vomiting
10. Anxiety
11. Delirium
12. Seizures
13. Dizziness or fainting
14. Unconsciousness or coma

Heat stroke is preventable /Source: Pexels

Prevention

Although heat stroke can be fatal, it is very much predictable and preventable. Here are the steps you should take to prevent heart stroke:

1. Wear clothes that are lightweight, light-colored, loose-fitting. Also, if you're stepping outside, consider wearing a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses.
2. Use sunscreen with sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 15.
3. Drink plenty of fluids. In general, it is highly recommended to drink at least eight glasses of water a day.
4. Never leave anyone in a parked car.
5. Reschedule outdoor activities to the coolest times of the day, either morning or near sunset.
6. Get acclimated if you're not used to hot weather.
7. Avoid drinks with caffeine or alcohol, as they make you lose more fluids.
8. Monitor the color of your urine. The darker your urine is, the more likely it is that you are dehydrated.
9. Limit the time you spend outdoors, especially from noon until early afternoon.
10. Turn on the air-conditioner or electric fan when the temperature gets really hot, to help your body cool down.

First-Aid

If you suspect that someone is suffering from heat stroke, according to DOH, these are the things that you should do:

• Move the person to a shady spot or indoors, and let him/her lie down with the legs elevated.
• If still conscious, let them sip cool water.
• Remove clothing, apply cool water to the skin and fan them.
• Apply ice packs to the armpits, wrists, ankles, and groin.
• Bring to a hospital immediately.

For more lifestyle content, head out to GMA's Lifestyle page.

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