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DOH issues tips on dealing with heat stroke


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With the days getting hotter, the Department of Health has issued tips on how to handle cases of heat stroke.
 
The DOH said heat stroke is the most severe form of heat illness, when the body overheats and cannot cool down.
 
It said heat stroke occurs when "the body cannot take off the excessive heat by sweating because of dehydration and/or humid environment."
 
"Heat stroke is a medical emergency! Bring the patient immediately to the hospital after instituting emergency measures," it said.
 
Causes of heat stroke include:
 
  • hot and humid weather
  • vigorous exercise in hot weather
  • dehydration
  • too much direct exposure to the sun
  • infants, the elderly, athletes, and individuals who work outside
 
Signs may include:
 
  • warm, flushed skin
  • faintness
  • dizziness
  • weakness
  • headache
  • very high fever of 41 degrees Celsius
  • rapid heartbeat
  • convulsion
  • unconsciousness
 
Emergency measures
 
The DOH advised moving the person to a shady spot or indoors, and having him/her lie down with legs elevated.
 
If he or she can drink liquids, have him/her sip cool water.
 
Remove his/her clothing, apply cool water to the skin, and fan the person. One can apply ice packs to the armpits, wrists, ankles, and groin.
 
Prevention
 
One can prevent heat stroke during very hot and humid weather by:
 
  • limiting the amount of time you spend outdoors.
  • drinking plenty of water.
  • avoiding tea, coffee, soda, and alcohol
  • wearing a wide-brimmed hat and long-sleeved clothing when outdoors
  • scheduling heavy-duty activities for the beginning or end of the day, when it’s cooler.

—Joel Locsin/KG, GMA News
Tags: heatstroke, departmentofhealth, healthtips
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