Heatstroke is a serious condition caused by prolonged exposure to high temperatures. Heatwave temperatures prevailed in India on Tuesday, with temperatures exceeding 40 degrees Celsius in most parts of the country.  In India, several people die due to heatstroke during the summer season. This condition requires immediate treatment because if left untreated, it can quickly damage your kidneys, muscles, brain and heart.

 

What is heatstroke?

It is a serious condition caused by prolonged exposure to high temperatures, usually combined with dehydration and/or physical exertion. Heatstroke can occur when the body’s heat-regulating mechanism fails and the body’s temperature rises rapidly.

 

It occurs when your body’s natural cooling system cannot keep up with the heat produced by exercise or environmental conditions. As a result, your core temperature rises to dangerous levels and you put yourself at risk of brain damage or death if not treated immediately!

 

Causes:

Heatstroke is caused by prolonged exposure to high temperatures and can be worsened by dehydration and physical exertion.

The body’s normal temperature range is between 97.8 degrees Fahrenheit (37 degrees Celsius) and 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit (38 degrees Celsius). Heatstroke occurs when the body’s core temperature rises above 104 degrees Fahrenheit (40 degrees Celsius).

 

Symptoms:

Heatstroke is a medical emergency that can be fatal. It’s important to know the signs and symptoms so you can act quickly if you suspect you or someone else.

The most common symptoms are:

  1. Headache
  2. Dizziness
  3. Confusion (or disorientation)
  4. Nausea or vomiting (may occur after the first symptoms)
  5. Fast heartbeat
  6. Loss of consciousness

 

Diagnosis:


Heatstroke is usually diagnosed using a physical exam, blood tests, and imaging tests such as X-rays and CT scans.

A physical exam will include checking your vital signs (pulse, blood pressure) and temperature. Your doctor may also look for signs of dehydration by examining your eyes or skin color.

Blood tests can help determine whether your organs have been damaged or another condition such as diabetes mellitus.

 

Treatment:

Treatment for heatstroke usually involves cooling the body and rehydrating it. This can be done in several ways, including:

  1. Cooling blankets or ice packs placed on the skin
  2. Cold water bath (if you have access to a bathtub)

 

Complications:

Complications of heatstroke can include organ damage, shock, and death. It is a serious medical emergency that requires immediate treatment.

 

Prevention:


Heatstroke can be prevented by avoiding prolonged exposure to high temperatures. Staying hydrated and taking frequent breaks when exercising outside are also important steps in preventing heat stroke.

 

Risk Factors:

Risk factors for heatstroke include:

  • Age: Older adults are at higher risk of heat stroke because their bodies do not adapt as well to changes in temperature.
  • Obesity: People who are overweight or obese have trouble regulating their body temperature and may be more likely to develop heat exhaustion than normal weight individuals.

Certain medicines, such as medicines used to treat high blood pressure (antihypertensives) and diabetes mellitus (insulin). These medications can cause dehydration through increased urination or fluid loss from the kidneys, making it harder for your body to cool down when you’re hot.

 
Prognosis:


The prognosis for heat stroke is generally good. However, in severe cases it can be fatal.

If you experience symptoms of heatstroke and are able to seek medical attention immediately, your chances of recovery are high.

If you’ve been diagnosed with heat exhaustion or a milder form of dehydration before developing a more serious condition like heat exhaustion or hyperthermia (a potentially life-threatening condition), your chances of recovery are also good.

 

Long Term Outlook:


The long-term outlook for heat stroke depends on the severity of the condition and the speed of treatment. If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with heatstroke, it’s important to see your doctor regularly to make sure your recovery is progressing as expected.

 

 

Heatstroke Frequently Asked Questions

 

To consult a doctor at Sparsh Diagnostic Centre in case of a heat stroke, call our helpline number 9830117733.

 

#BhaloTheko

 

Disclaimer:

No content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor or other qualified clinician.

 

Sparsh Doctor List

 

Loading

9 Replies to “Heatstroke”

  1. […] Heat Stroke and Heat Exhaustion: Severe dehydration during hot weather or intense exercise can lead to heat exhaustion, which, if untreated, may progress to heat stroke—a medical emergency. […]

  2. […] When the mercury soars, our bodies work harder to maintain a stable internal temperature. Sweating is a natural cooling mechanism, but it also leads to fluid loss. By staying hydrated, you help your body regulate temperature more effectively and reduce the risk of heat exhaustion or heatstroke. […]

  3. […] severe cases, dehydration can lead to heat exhaustion, heatstroke, kidney stones, urinary tract infections, and even life-threatening complications if left […]

  4. Anna Colter 2 years ago

    Very educative article

    1. Dear Ma’am,

      Thanks for the kind words of appreciation.

      Regards,
      Team Sparsh

    2. Dear Ma’am,

      Thanks for the kind words of appreciation.

      Regards,
      Team Sparsh

  5. Nicole Greene 2 years ago

    Very important article considering the weather situation in Kolkata at the moment.

    1. Dear Ma’am,

      Thanks for the kind words of appreciation.

      Regards,
      Team Sparsh

    2. Dear Ma’am,

      Thanks for the kind words of appreciation.

      Regards,
      Team Sparsh

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This field is required.

This field is required.