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1 What is Hyperthermia?
Hyperthermia is a condition where the body’s temperature rises above the normal range of 37 degrees Celsius.
- Fever: the body combats infection by raising its temperature.
- Hyperthermia: not caused by infection. It occurs when the body temporarily fails to regulate its temperature and effectively eliminate heat.
When the body’s temperature rises significantly, it becomes a medical emergency as it can lead to death or other serious complications.
Causes
Hyperthermia occurs when:
- Hot weather or strenuous physical activity causes excessive sweating to cool the body. However, if this persists, the body may lose its ability to regulate temperature effectively, resulting in hyperthermia.
- Prolonged exposure to direct sunlight.
- Inadequate hydration throughout the day.
- Living or working in hot, stuffy environments, overworking, etc.
- Certain medical conditions such as heart, kidney, or lung disease, hypertension, poor circulation, reduced sweating, obesity, etc.
Who is at Risk?
Some individuals are more susceptible to hyperthermia, including:
- Those who regularly work outdoors in hot weather conditions: construction workers, farmers, firefighters, chefs, etc.
- Individuals taking medication for hypertension and heart disease: diuretics, for example, can reduce the body’s ability to cool down by decreasing sweating. Additionally, salt restriction for hypertension management may also increase the risk of hyperthermia.
- Older adults and children: these age groups are more vulnerable to hyperthermia. Older adults may not perceive changes in body temperature accurately when the environment heats up (e.g., not turning on fans or air conditioning in hot weather). Children, on the other hand, may continue playing outdoors without adequate rest.
Symptoms and Signs
Hyperthermia presents with various symptoms, including:
- Exhaustion: characterized by thirst, weakness, loss of coordination, nausea, and increased heart rate.
- Heat stroke: a life-threatening condition requiring immediate first aid. Body temperature rises above 40 degrees Celsius, accompanied by a rapid heart rate, altered mental state, confusion, or even loss of consciousness.
- Heat stress: the body reacts to hot weather with stress.
- Heat fatigue: the body weakens due to high temperatures. Typically, individuals exhibit cold, damp skin and a weak peripheral pulse. In more severe cases, they may faint.
- Heat syncope: sudden weakness, dizziness, and fainting due to high outdoor temperatures. Symptoms include cold, damp, pale skin, and simultaneous sweating. Additionally, the heart rate increases while the peripheral pulse weakens.
- Heat cramps: muscle spasms in the arms, legs, or abdomen due to salt deficiency caused by excessive sweating.
- Heat edema: prolonged sitting or standing in hot environments can cause swelling in the hands and ankles due to fluid accumulation.
- Heat rash: red bumps or blisters appear on the skin after prolonged activity in hot conditions, along with profuse sweating that soaks clothing. These rashes usually disappear with cooling but may lead to skin infections if left untreated.
2 How to Manage Hyperthermia
If you or someone you know is experiencing hyperthermia, take the following steps:
Immediate Actions
To effectively manage hyperthermia, it is crucial to identify the underlying cause before proceeding with treatment.
For instance, if hyperthermia results from prolonged sun exposure, move the affected individual to a cool, well-ventilated area. Encourage them to rehydrate, as this will help alleviate symptoms. If hyperthermia occurs due to medication use, discontinue the medication and consult a doctor immediately.
Cooling the body is the most immediate action to take in response to hyperthermia. In addition to relocating the affected person to a cooler environment, ensure they wear loose, lightweight clothing.
Depending on the situation, apply cold compresses or dampen specific body areas like the neck, armpits, wrists, or groin to reduce body temperature.
Post-First Aid Care
After providing first aid, monitor the individual’s body temperature to ensure it returns to a stable, normal range.
In cases of severe hyperthermia, such as heat stroke, seek medical attention immediately after initial treatment. Professional care may involve intravenous fluid administration and other specialized interventions.
Important Considerations During First Aid
- Identify the cause of hyperthermia to implement timely and appropriate interventions.
- Move the affected individual to a cool, well-ventilated area and remove any unnecessary clothing.
- Encourage the person to drink water if possible.
- If symptoms persist or worsen, seek medical attention immediately.
- In cases of heat stroke or circulatory collapse, perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) while waiting for emergency services to arrive.
3 Preventing Hyperthermia
- Avoiding prolonged sun exposure: when outdoors, wear protective clothing and headgear, and limit your time in direct sunlight.
- Choosing lightweight, breathable cotton clothing.
- Refraining from activities that increase body temperature.
- Avoiding alcoholic and caffeinated beverages.
- Cooling the body with damp cloths during hot, humid weather.
- Staying hydrated: aim for eight glasses of water (1600 ml) per day. Some experts recommend up to three liters for men and 2.2 liters for women. Ensure adequate fluid and electrolyte replacement, especially during hot weather, with oral rehydration solutions.
Reference: Health and Life
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