Heatwave Alert: Tips to Prevent Heat Stroke
Heat stroke can be prevented with simple measures, but if treatment is delayed, the mortality rate can be as high as 80%.
A severe heatwave is expected to hit Punjab and Sindh starting today. Authorities at federal and provincial levels are taking precautions to protect people from heat-related illnesses, such as heat stroke.
Heat stroke is the most severe heat-related illness, with mortality rates ranging from 10% to 80%. It occurs when body temperature exceeds 40.6 degrees Celsius due to environmental heat.
Studies show that early diagnosis and cooling can reduce the mortality rate to 10%. However, if treatment is delayed, the mortality rate can be as high as 80%.
The National Disaster Management Authority and provincial authorities have issued a heatwave advisory. They warn that infants, elderly persons, athletes, and outdoor workers are at high risk for heat stroke.
Symptoms of Heat Stroke
- Profuse sweating or absence of sweating with hot, red, or dry skin
- Weakness and lethargy
- Chills and throbbing headache
- High body temperature
- Hallucinations, confusion, dizziness, and slurred speech
If someone shows these symptoms, they should be taken to the nearest healthcare facility immediately.
How to Prevent Heat Stroke:
- Avoid going outside during the hottest part of the day.
- Avoid strenuous physical activity during peak heat. If necessary, do it between 4am and 7am.
- Stay in the shade.
- Do not leave children or animals in parked vehicles.
- Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.
- Limit time in direct sunlight and high temperatures.
- Avoid vigorous activities in hot and humid weather.
- Take breaks from the sun and drink plenty of fluids.
- Avoid caffeine and sugary drinks as they can worsen dehydration.
- Eat salty foods, use an umbrella, and wear hats, light-colored, and loose-fitting clothes.
- Keep cool with showers, baths, cold packs, and sponging.
- If you feel dizzy, weak, or have a headache, move to a cool place and drink water or fruit juice.
- If you have painful muscle spasms, rest in a cool place and drink oral rehydration solutions (ORS).
Medical attention is needed if heat cramps last more than an hour. Victims of heat stroke require immediate treatment.
