Muscat: Risks of sunstroke or heatstroke are rising temperatures cross 45 degrees Celsius in many parts of Oman.
Heatstroke is a condition in which the environmental temperature is equal to or greater than the body temperature, and as a result, the body fails to cool or use heat.
When the body temperature rises above 40 degrees Celsius due to prolonged exposure to extreme heat, an individual can suffer from heatstroke.
According to doctors, heatstroke can lead to confusion, altered mental status, slurred speech, loss of consciousness (coma), hot and dry skin or profuse sweating, seizures, and very high body temperature and can be fatal if treatment is delayed.
Severe heatstroke has the potential to quickly damage your brain, heart, kidneys and muscles. If treatment is delayed or left untreated, heatstroke can increase the risk of serious heart, kidney and brain complications and can become fatal.
It is one of the causes that lead to sunstroke exposure to a hot environment, especially if humidity levels are high. This is common in the Gulf region, and here the source of heat that leads to heatstroke is the sun or the hot surrounding atmosphere. It is called “non-exertional heatstroke,” meaning it is not caused by exertion.
Engaging in vigorous physical activity occurs when a person exercises or performs physical effort in a hot environment. It is called "exercise heatstroke."
Wear a large amount of clothing, which prevents sweat from evaporating to cool the body and reduce temperature.
Dehydration occurs when a person does not drink sufficient amounts of water to replace the fluids he loses through sweat.
The risk factors for heatstroke are more for people over 65 years old. So the elderly must avoid going out if it is very hot.
In addition, not drinking enough water is also common among young people and adults who may forget to drink water.
People should avoid physical activities like playing and exercising in the sun.
If anyone suffers heatstroke, towels dipped in cold water should be applied on victim's forehead, give water to drink and take him/her to hospital.
Here are the tips to prevent sunstroke:
1. Wear light, light-coloured clothing that does not reflect or absorb sunlight.
2. Drink plenty of fluids.
3. Do not leave a child in the car, even if the windows are open.
4. Do not exercise or walk in hot weather or under the sun.
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