'Silent' symptom of deadly heatstroke that's very easy to miss
As fun as it is to have temperatures in the UK soaring to as high as 25C and above, it's vital to never forget how dangerous the heat can be.
Heatstroke is the most severe form of heat illness and is caused by the body overheating, typically as a result of being exposed to high temperatures. It occurs when the body is unable to regulate its temperature, causing rapid breathing, an increased heart rate, nausea, feeling hot, headaches and sometimes even altered behaviour.
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And of course in the summertime, when the weather is hot, many of us like to reach for an alcoholic beverage - or two. But doing so can sometimes lead to heatstroke.
When the body starts to overheat, it cools itself down by sweating - but alcohol can reduce the amount of sweat we produce, thus making it harder for the body to cool down. This can then cause your body temperature to rise to extremely dangerous levels.
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If you think someone is experiencing heatstroke, it’s crucial to seek medical attention immediately.
The silent symptom to watch for
The above symptoms of heatstroke are well documented, but a symptom that's largely fallen under the radar - but no less important - is to feel extremely hot, but you aren't actually sweating. Hot, dry skin that is flushed but not sweaty is a real red flag for heatstroke.
The NHS says that if someone is showing any signs of heatstroke, they need to be cooled down and given fluids.
What to do if someone has heatstroke
Make sure the sufferer is in a cool place, which is usually indoors. Failing that, some shade will suffice – anything that gets the affected person out of direct sunlight.
Remove as much of their outer clothing as possible, then call for an ambulance. Try to keep them as cool as possible while waiting.
Cover the person in a cool, wet sheet and keep topping it up. If possible, take their temperature at regular intervals until it has fallen to 38C (100.4F).
Once their temperature has fallen to this level, discard the wet sheet and replace with a dry one.
The experience can be distressing for the patient, so it’s important to reassure them until help arrives.
What are some top tips to stay cool out there?
The NHS has put together a variety of ways to stay nice and chilled when the weather is hot:
- If you have to go outside, stay in the shade particularly between 11am and 3pm, wear sunscreen, a hat and light clothes.
Keep out of the heat if you can
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- Have cold food and drinks, avoid alcohol, caffeine and hot drinks
Avoid exercise or activity that makes you hotter
- Have a cool shower or put cool water on your skin or clothes
- Close windows during the day and open them at night when the temperature outside has gone down
- Electric fans can certainly help if the temperature is below 35C
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