Heatstroke is the overheating of the body, resulting in a significant and dangerous increase in body temperature.
It is a severe and urgent clinical condition that typically occurs during heatwaves and predominantly affects elderly and vulnerable individuals. Its symptoms may resemble those of a heart attack or stroke.
Mammals possess a thermoregulatory mechanism that enables them to maintain a stable body temperature despite great variations in external temperatures.
This means that the external environment can range from +40 to -40 degrees Celsius, but the body’s internal temperature remains within a narrow range of 36.6 – 37.1 degrees.
When the environment is cold, the body generates heat to stay warm, and when it is hot, the body dissipates heat to prevent overheating. It does so by reducing combustion, dilating small blood vessels, increasing sweating, and accelerating respiration.
The thermoregulatory mechanism is controlled by the brain and is sometimes referred to as a ‘thermostat.’ However, this mechanism can occasionally malfunction, leading to hyperthermia or hypothermia.
Prolonged exposure to the sun (heatstroke) is one way this can occur.
The combination of high temperature, high atmospheric humidity, and calm winds creates the perfect conditions for heatstroke.
Since the 1980s, the media has adopted the term ‘heatwave’ to imply temperatures that can induce heatstroke.
Vulnerable to heatstroke, in addition to the elderly, are individuals taking vasodilator and diuretic medications, i.e. those suffering from hypertension, heart failure, and diabetes mellitus.
Predisposing factors
- Age over 65 years.
- Heart failure, renal failure, hepatic dysfunction.
- Alcohol consumption or use of sedative drugs.
- Use of antidepressant medications, phenothiazines, anti Parkinson agents, etc.
- History of previous heatstroke.
- Obesity.
- Working in very high-temperature environments.
Symptoms
The first symptom is usually muscle cramps due to salt loss. Dizziness, confusion, headache, nausea, and vomiting may also occur. Delirium, seizures, and even complete loss of consciousness can be observed in severe cases. The skin becomes hot, red, and dry, the fever can reach 41 degrees Celsius, respiration is rapid, and the pulse weakens progressively.
In severe heatstroke, the patient experiences massive muscle destruction, renal and respiratory failure, and pulmonary oedema. Cardiac rhythm is disrupted, as is blood clotting. In advanced stages, encephalopathy may occur, leading to a coma, and death is a significant possibility. A 25% mortality rate is reported among those affected.
Prevention
Heatstroke, despite its potential fatality and permanent damage, can be relatively easily prevented.
Consume plenty of fluids, eat lots of fruits and salads, limit sugar and alcohol intake, avoid sun exposure, and protect the body with light-coloured, loose-fitting cotton clothing, and the head with a hat.
If you suspect heatstroke:
- Immediately move the patient to a cool place.
- Remove heavy clothing.
- Apply cold compresses.
- If possible, administer fluids.
- Transport the patient to the nearest healthcare facility.
(information from ygeiamou.gr)
