Dr. Xavier Mendoza, director of the Dr. Miguel Concha Health Center of Quilota Municipality, called for self-care and avoiding these medical emergencies.
Children under the age of four and people over the age of 65 are at greater risk of heatstroke due to the high temperatures reported for these days in the Valparaiso region.
Heatstroke is a medical emergency and occurs when, due to overheating, our body cannot thermoregulate to cool itself adequately. In this way, the body temperature rises higher than normal and higher than what is required for our organs to function properly, affecting the central nervous system and potentially causing a very serious condition and even death.
In view of the above, Dr.
“We mainly care for children and the elderly. You have to worry about your hydration. It is important for the general population to reduce intense physical activity during hot weather. It is recommended to consume measured water, juices and fruits, which greatly helps during periods of high temperatures,” explained doctor Xavier Mendoza. This is amazing”.
In the case of workers who carry out field activities, such as agricultural work, construction, etc., the professional added that “it is important to protect themselves with hats and caps, while using sunscreen, which is important to protect the skin.” It is also recommended not to be exposed to sunlight between 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM.
What is sunstroke?
Doctor Xavier Mendoza explained that the so-called heat stroke could be one of the main complications that the population could be exposed to.
“Heatstroke is exposure to extreme temperatures, where the body does not have the ability to respond. When there is no hydration, the weather is too hot or the time is too long, the body can suffer a series of damages caused by increased arterial pressure,” said Xavier Mendoza. “Dehydration, confusion in the elderly, and sunburn are conditions that can occur when exposed to high temperatures.”
The most extreme case of heatstroke can become a medical emergency requiring medical attention.
“If compliance is very complicated after prolonged exposure or heat stroke, it is important to go to the emergency room. But in the vast majority of cases, what we do is hydrate the body, avoid exposure to direct radiation and take Necessary preventive measures.”
What are the symptoms of heatstroke?
- The skin is hot, red, dry, or clammy
- Fast, strong pulse (tachycardia)
- headache
- dizziness
- nausea
- confusion
- Loss of consciousness (fainting)
What to do in case of heatstroke?
- Take the person to a cooler place.
- Help lower the temperature with a cool washcloth or a cold shower.
- Don’t give him anything to drink.
- If symptoms persist, you should go to the nearest health center or call SAMU 131.
How to prevent sunstroke?
- Reduce physical activity in hot environments.
- Stay in cool, well-ventilated places, preferably air-conditioned.
- Wear comfortable, loose clothing.
- Keep your body hydrated with water or natural fruit juices.
- Do not eat heavy meals.
- Wet your body frequently.
- Avoid consuming alcoholic beverages.
- Do not expose yourself to direct sunlight between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
