Hyperthermia

Hyperthermia, also known as heat stroke or sunstroke, is an acute condition resulting from the body producing or absorbing more heat than it can dissipate, usually due to excessive exposure to heat. The homeothermal regulatory mechanisms eventually become overwhelmed and unable to effectively deal with the heat, and body temperature climbs uncontrollably. This is a serious medical emergency that requires immediate hospitalization. Body temperatures above 40 °C (104 °F) are life-threatening. At 41 °C (106 °F), brain death begins, and at 45 °C (113 °F) death is nearly certain. Internal temperatures above 50 °C (122 °F) will cause rigidity in the muscles and certain, immediate death.

Prevention

• Do NOT leave people in a car in hot weather. Temperatures in the vehicle can reach up to 50°C (122°F) and will quickly kill a person. This applies to animals as well.
• Do NOT sun-bathe or otherwise stay in the sun for extended periods of time.
• Do NOT exercise strenuously in the middle of the day in hot weather. Dawn and dusk are safer.
• Wear light, loose-fitting clothing, such as cotton, so sweat can evaporate. Wear a wide-brimmed hat with vents.
• Drink plenty of liquids, especially if urine is a dark yellow, to replace fluids lost from sweating. Thirst is not a reliable sign that a person needs fluids. When exercising, it is better to sip rather than gulp liquids. Recall that a person needs 8 glasses of water per day (when not in a hot environment) and thirst means the body is already dehydrated. Avoid drinking enormous amounts of water. Water intoxication is also dangerous.

It is best to drink water or water with salt added if sweating profusely. (Use 1/2 teaspoon salt in 1 quart of water.) Sport drinks such as Gatorade, All Sport and PowerAde are also effective at replacing water and sodium lost through sweating. Do not use this as a first aid for heat stroke.

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• Use air conditioning and fans to cool down.
• Do NOT use saunas, steam rooms, etc. unattended and for long periods of time and be careful in hot baths.
• Do NOT drink alcohol or excessive tea/coffee in hot weather as this will affect body temperature.
• Stay out of the sun if taking water pills, mood altering or antispasmodic medications. Check which ones are safe with a doctor.
• Be aware of the signs of heat stroke/heat exhaustion and do not ignore them. If you feel ill you may need help promptly.
• Do NOT over-clothe babies (this is thought to be one of the causes of cot-death).
• Children, babies, the elderly and the ill are more susceptible to the effects of heat — people who are ill with fevers especially.