Does a Rise in Temperature Increase the Risk of Strokes? A doctor offers advice on preventing heat stroke

Some Advice To Avoid Heat Stroke: A wide range of conditions are categorized as heat-related ailments, from heat exhaustion, cramping in the muscles, and syncope to serious medical conditions, including heatstroke. Normally, the body’s core temperature is kept within a fairly small range. While substantial hypothermia is tolerated, temperatures over 41° to 43°C quickly cause multi-organ failure. Indeed, a rise in temperature may increase the risk of stroke, especially for susceptible groups, including the elderly and those with underlying medical issues.

According to Dr. Bharath Kumar Surisetti, a movement disorder specialist and consultant neuro physician at Yashoda Hospitals in Hyderabad, the body generally releases heat into the surroundings via four different ways. The most effective way to prevent heat loss is by the evaporation of epidermal moisture; however, this process loses effectiveness when relative humidity approaches 70%. Infrared electromagnetic radiation is constantly emitted into the surrounding environment. When the ambient temperature rises above the temperature of the skin, convection—the loss of heat to air currents—and conduction—the direct transfer of heat to a colder object—become inefficient.

Heatstroke’s clinical signs indicate a complete lack of thermostatic function. The physical and historical trio of heat stress exposure, central nervous system dysfunction, and a core temperature higher than 40.5°C aids in the early diagnosis, even though there isn’t a single, definitive diagnostic test. Some people who are about to suffer from heatstroke may seem normal at first. Waiting to make a final diagnosis until all other possible causes of hyperthermia have been ruled out is advised. Dr. Surisetti provided a list of practical suggestions to help avoid heat stroke.

Some Advice To Avoid Heat Stroke
1. Remain hydrated: Throughout the day, particularly if you’re outside or in a hot area, sip plenty of water.

2. Prevent direct sun exposure: Look for shade when you can, and try to spend as little time outside as possible during the warmest hours of the day, which are usually from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

3. Dress appropriately: To reflect heat and sunshine, wear loose-fitting, lightweight clothes in bright colors.

4. Take regular pauses in cool, shaded settings if you’re working outside or engaging in vigorous exercise.

5. Use fans or air conditioning: To cool down inside areas, use fans or, if feasible, stay in buildings with air conditioning.

6. Recognize the symptoms: Heat stroke may cause symptoms such as elevated body temperature, fast heartbeat, headache, nausea, dizziness, and disorientation.

7. Look out for those who are vulnerable: Make sure elderly neighbors, family members, and others suffering from long-term diseases are drinking enough water and keeping cool.

8. Never leave someone in a parked car. Even on days when the weather is generally moderate, temperatures inside parked cars may increase quickly and pose a major danger of heat stroke.