What is a sunstroke, why it appears and how to avoid it
During the summer it is very common for the thermometer to reach more than 30 ° C, so that both the heat and the heat put both older and younger ones to the test. In fact, it is normal that even on many occasions (more than we would like, probably) the temperature reaches and exceeds the alarming figure of 40 ºC on average.
The truth is the heat can cause serious consequences for our health, especially if we do not maintain basic care to hydrate and protect ourselves from both the sun and high temperatures, such as the case of heatstrokeand of the sunstroke. 
What is an insolation?
From a medical point of view, Heat stroke is a brain disorder, which occurs as a result of a prolonged exposure to the sun's rays. It is also known by the names of heat infarction, stroke solis or Icy Solar.
It should not be confused with heat stroke and solar erythema, since these two are much less serious conditions, which do not actually endanger the life of the person who suffers.
In fact, while heat stroke is a condition in which the body temperature exceeds 40 ° C increasing and exceeding the mechanisms of temperature regulation, while the hypothalamic set point does not change; The sun's erythema basically consists of sunburn, which is characterized by the reddening of the skin caused by excessive exposure to the sun.
What symptoms does it produce?
In the particular case of insolation appear almost the same symptoms as when heat stroke occurs, with the difference that first or second degree burns also manifest, which tend to affect those areas of the body that have been exposed to the sun.
Among the most common symptoms, we can distinguish the following: nausea, headache, vomiting, heat in the skin and feeling of drowsiness, in addition to producing an alteration of muscle fibers exposed to sunlight.
Yes, When the insolation is severe seizures and loss of consciousness may occur, and if the sunstroke is not treated soon and the picture is allowed to progress the person may end up in coma.
In short, it is necessary to know that your first symptoms correspond rather to the one known as heatstroke:
- Excessive sweating
- Tachycardia.
- The skin is very hot.
- Dizziness and nausea with the possibility of vomiting.
- Muscular weakness.
If these symptoms start to appear, the most advisable thing is Put yourself quickly in the shade and drink lots of water. But if the symptoms have not stopped, that heat stroke can lead to sunstroke, which you will identify with the following symptoms:
- The skin has stopped sweating, but it is very hot and dry.
- Sensation of mental confusion
- Problems breathing normally.
- Frequent vomiting
- A loss of consciousness can occur.
Given that at this moment the person suffering from heatstroke can not be fully conscious, it is advisable that the people who accompany them call the doctor quickly.
How can it be avoided?
Prevention is the best weapon against sunstroke, since it can actually be easily prevented and prevent the box from appearing. In fact, there are some basic tips that we could follow to prevent it. The most useful and effective are the following:
- Wear light clothing and as breathable as possible.
- Always stay in cool places and in the shade.
- Protect your head with a hat or cap, especially when you are in the sun.
- Drink frequently water and other liquids to maintain an adequate state of hydration. You can also choose natural juices of fruits and vegetables, isotonic drinks and teas and cold infusions.
And what to do if heat stroke occurs?
In that case the most important thing is go to a cool and shaded or dark environment, which will help when it comes to promoting the decrease in body heat. If the person suffers a fainting spell or is dizzy, it is best to try to keep the feet higher than the rest of the body.
Unlike what you think, drinks that are too cold are not suitable, but it is fundamental to offer liquids to the person. In addition, the cold water bath and wet wipes are especially useful for lowering the body temperature.
If the body temperature exceeds 38 ° C, many medical specialists advise the administration of a drug with an antipyretic effect, such as, for example, ibuprofen or paracetamol.
However, if you notice that the person is very ill, or however the symptoms do not improve, it is necessary to go to the emergency room quickly.
In summary, taking into account that the main objective is lower body temperature of the person who is suffering from heatstroke, it is advisable to follow the following basic tips:
- Take the person quickly to the shade.
- Remove it from unnecessary clothing.
- Abanícala with cold air.
- Wet your skin with cold water.
Now that summer is approaching it is a very good idea to keep well in mind what is a sunstroke, what are its symptoms and how to act before it.
Images of Istockphoto. This article is published for informational purposes only. It can not and should not replace the consultation with a Physician. We advise you to consult your Trusted Doctor.
