USAfricaonline HEALTHWATCH

Heat Exhaustion/Heat Stroke as a Medical Emergency

By Dr. Uchegbulem A .Eze THE Summer of 1980 brought with it a severe heat wave that hit the United States and its complications killed as many as 1,700 people. The rising temperature across the country this summer is an ugly reminder to those of us who witnessed the scourging heat of yesteryears. The human body has a self-regulating mechanism whereby it cools itself down. This mechanism involves sweating (perspiration). Under certain conditions of extreme temperatures, the body‚s temperature rises rapidly within 10 to 15 minutes that sweating in not enough and the body‚s temperature control system is overloaded. The inability of the body to dissipate body heat through perspiration may cause permanent organ damage or death. There are two major types of complications of extreme temperature. It may either be a heat exhaustion or a heat stroke.   HEAT EXHAUSTION: The body temperature rises to above 102 degrees Farenheight and is unable to respond to excessive loss of water or salt contained in sweat.   HEAT STROKE: The body is unable to control its temperature, sweating mechanism fails, body fails to cool down itself and temperature rises higher than 105 degrees Farenheight within 10 to 15 minutes. Loss of consciousness. People at risk: 65 years old and older Overweight (obese) Ill patients or patients with heart and circulation problems.   Factors that affect the body's ability to cool itself down: High humidity Sweat will not evaporate quickly Old age Obesity Fever Dehydration Heart disease Poor circulation Sunburn Drug and Alcohol abuse. Precautions: Try to keep cool, stay in air-conditioned or shaded areas. Drink plenty of fluids (2-4 glasses/hour) e.g. water, fruit juices or sports beverage Avoid alcoholic beverages since they tend to contribute to fluid loss. Do not take salt tablets unless directed by a physician Choose lightweight/light-color/loose-fitting clothing. Avoid sunburn. It affects the body‚s ability to cool itself off. Apply sunscreen 30 minutes before going outdoors (choose SPF 15 or greater). Pace yourself while exercising or working in a hot environment. Monitor co-workers and others at risk for confusion and consciousness. Symptoms: These are some signs and symptoms that could clue someone of an impending danger due to long exposure to extreme heat. Heat stroke is a medical emergency and requires an immediate medical assistance. Nausea Dizziness Headache Red, dry, very hot skin Strong and rapid pulse

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