20/04/2016
Heat Stroke in Thailand
Thailand is a tropical country with all-year round high temperature, especially in the summer.Some stay home away from the sun. Unfortunately, the world will become hotter due to global warming. As we have no way out but live in this hotter world, we should know more about some diseases or symptoms that usually come with hot weather, at least to prevent or solve the problem when something wrong occurs to us.
Heat stroke is one of the top heat-induced incidents that you should know of.
How it happens?
It occurs when your body cannot cope with the sudden increase of heat. The temperature control center in your brain cannot work fast enough to order other systems to release heat out of your body. Normally, this temperature control center in your brain will keep body temperature at 37 degree Celsius. This center is sensitive to the temperature of blood passing through. When blood temperature rises, the center will send a signal through nerve fibers throughout your body. Blood vessels will then expand to allow heat to be release from the body. Metabolism system is reduced in order to lower heat production. If the temperature control system center is overheated and fails to perform normally, you will experience what is called “heat stroke”. The more you are dehydrated, the higher risk of heat stroke you will have. When you do heavy exercise for a long time, your body will be less tolerant to dehydration. When there is insufficient blood to feed your skin and inner organs, such as brain, liver and muscles, your body will then have to choose one most important thing to do. Naturally, blood will be fed to internal organs and muscles, and less to your skin. As a result, body temperature rises uncontrollably.
What will happen?
Thirsty, dry mouth and throat
High temperature, short and frequent breath
Dizziness, blurred eyes
Uncontrolled movement, unconsciousness
Throwing up
When exercising and you experience these symptoms, continuing your activity will cause your body to stop sweating, your skin will become suddenly dry and your body temperature will uncontrollably rises. Next, your organs will not be able to perform normally and you will become unconscious. Without prompt first aid, you may die.
First aid tips
When you stay in the sun for a long time, check out if you have any of the said symptoms. If you experience any, find a shade and rest.
Loosen your clothes. Cool down yourself by using wet towel to wipe your body.
Sip water slowly from time to time until you are no longer thirsty
Hope this information will help you to prepare yourself before travel to Thailand
Credit : samitivejhospitals.com
Photo : sciencecare.com