How to Recognize, Avoid and Care for Heat Stoke

How to Recognize, Avoid and Care for Heat Stoke

Sunny and warm summer weather increases our outdoor activities. We all love jogging, hiking, gardening, bicycling, and just sitting on the beach, flying kites and enjoying the sun. These are all great activities, but we have to remember to protect ourselves from the sun; even a brief exposure to intense heat or prolonged exposure to less intense heat can lead to heat stress or heat stroke.

What Are the Signs of Heat Stress?
The effects of heat stress can range from heat rash all the way to heat stroke. The symptoms can vary. They include: heat rash, sunburns, cramps in large muscle groups, weakness, nausea, vomiting, pallor of the face, fast heart rate, and low blood pressure. In more serious cases you can also observe a higher body temperature, dizziness, confusion, and a decreased level of consciousness.

Who is at a Higher Risk of Receiving Heat Stress/Stroke?
Babies, young children, seniors, and workers or athletes who are performing strenuous activities in hot or humid environments are at a higher risk. Also, people with chronic disease such as Diabetes, chronic heart and lung issues, and chronic kidney issues are very susceptible. In addition, people who drink alcohol, who use prescription medication, and use drugs recreationally are also more vulnerable to sunstroke. Remember: Never leave a child in a hot car, even for 5 minutes!

Prevention
Avoid exposure to the sun for long periods of time: 20-30 minutes at a time is plenty. When you are outside, make sure to use appropriate sunscreen lotions. Wearing a shady hat which protects the head from the sun as well as a light long sleeve shirt can also decrease chances of sunstroke. Also, drink plenty of liquids: water is a good choice, but due to the loss of electrolytes that occurs when we sweat, a drink which contains electrolytes, such as Gatorade, is often preferable.

How to Care For the Symptoms
If you or someone you know shows mild signs of heat exposure, first move them to a cool shady area. Cold applications or cool showers will help, as well as drinks such as Gatorade and other brands with electrolytes. Rest is also essential to recovery. Calendula Cream will help alleviate the pain and expedite the healing of the sunburns. Additionally, the appropriate homeopathic remedy will help support the body in getting back to thermal balance fast. There are a few different homeopathic remedies that can be considered in these cases, depending on the individual picture that is presented.

If the body temperature is high, (102-105 degrees Fahrenheit, 39-41 Celcius), or the person is displaying symptoms of confusion, headaches, nausea, and vomiting, seek medical attention immediately.

To your health,
Bat-sheva Hoter, Homeopath
Portland, Oregon

For questions please consult Bat-sheva Hoter at: 503-830-3642