Why do you die of sunstroke?

Answer 1

Sunstroke (heat stroke) is more technically referred to as hyperthermia, which is when the body gets too hot and cannot lower its internal temperature enough to remain alive.

If a person is in the heat (not necessarily in direct sunlight), and cannot stay cool enough through perspiration or rest, the body's internal core temperature may rise. If it rises high enough, the temperature begins to damage the brain and thus autonomic functions. Sufficient brain damage results in death.

Hyperthermia is a medical emergency, and anyone suffering from it should be immediately seen by a doctor or taken to the hospital.

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS:

Dry, hot skin (no sweating)

Swollen lips

Dizziness

Nausea or vomiting

Unconsciousness (fainting)

Severe hyperthermia may present as extreme disorientation, violent behavior, rapid heart rate/breathing and other signs that resemble intoxication. Seizures are also possible, especially in children.

FIRST AID:

Have the person sit in the shade, or move to a cooler location (inside an air conditioned car or building). Remove any insulating clothing, or remove as much clothing as modesty permits. If the person is conscious, have them drink tepid (but not cold) water. You can also sponge or dampen the skin with water to assist evaporative cooling.

Call for emergency medical assistance or take the person to a hospital immediately.

THINGS NOT TO DO:

- Do not put the person in a tub of ice or cold water. This can shock the body into vasoconstriction, which is counterproductive. If tepid water is available, that may be used instead.

- Do not attempt to give an unconscious or semi-conscious person food or water. They may choke.

WAYS TO STAY SAFE:

- Make sure you drink enough water during hot conditions; dehydration is one of the most common factors and one of the easiest things to prevent.

- If you are engaged in physical activity, take frequent rests in a shaded area.

- Children are much more vulnerable, and will not remember to drink enough fluids. Make sure your kids are taking rests and getting enough water.

- Try to avoid working outside in hot weather if possible.

- Remember that humid weather makes it harder to stay cool through sweating, and be more cautious than in dry weather.