Every summer, as the outdoor temperatures soar, so do the number of heat stroke cases and other heat-related medical emergencies. Unrelenting heat waves often lead to heat-related emergencies, especially when people neglect to take appropriate precautions. Too much fun in the sun leads to many avoidable cases of heat stroke and summertime deaths.
Facts
Hyperthermia, otherwise known as heat stroke, is the most severe of the heat-related medical emergencies. Each year hundreds of people die as a result of heat stroke. Individuals who are obese, have lost the ability to sweat due to a medical condition, children, and the elderly run an increased risk of falling prey to heat stroke.
Significance
The human body's built-in ability to deal with excess heat--sweating and internal temperature control--are compromised during a hyperthermia crisis. As the body's temperature climbs, blood vessels will dilate in an effort to release the excessive amounts of heat. Cardiovascular, pulmonary and renal systems will begin to fail as a result if immediate medical intervention for the heat stroke does not occur. The eventual result without medical attention will be death.
Types
Hyperthermia has several different causes. Heat stroke can be the result of physical exertion, caused by prescription medications, or result from the use of illegal drugs. Physical activity in exceptionally warm environments while dehydrated, drinking alcohol or not drinking an adequate amount of fluids are the leading causes of heat-related . Anticholingeric medications, antihistamines, diuretics and many psychotropics list hyperthermia as a possible side effect. The use of illegal drugs such as PCP, LSD, cocaine and amphetamines also raise the body's internal temperature to risky levels.
Identification
Behavioral signs of individuals suffering from heat stroke include confusion, irritability, hostility and behavior mimicking a drunken state. The individual will have stopped sweating and her skin will feel paper dry and hot to the touch as her body temperature begins to soar over 104 Fahrenheit. She will experience headache, nausea and vomiting. Heartbeat and breathing will become rapid. Breathing will also become shallow and dizziness or fainting will follow. In severe cases of heat stroke, the individual's skin will become extremely pale with a bluish tinge, especially around the lips, due to an extreme drop in blood pressure. She may begin to experience seizures or lapse into a coma.
Considerations
Move individuals determined to be suffering from heat strokes, or any heat related crisis, immediately to a cooler environment and give them fluids. If they are unconscious or begin to seize, do not attempt to give fluids. Seek emergency medical intervention immediately either by calling for assistance or transporting the individual to a nearby medical facility.
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