Sunstroke

Sunstroke

Heatstroke, also known as heatstroke, is a serious condition that can be life-threatening. Rapid access to cooling is the most effective method of preventing sunstroke. Heat waves can lead to an increased incidence of sunstroke, especially among the elderly and workers who work outdoors.

What is sunstroke?

Heatstroke is a condition where the body temperature is above 40°C, and this can lead to confusion, convulsions or unconsciousness. When we get hot, the body manages to regulate body temperature by sweating. This is to cool the skin. If the heat becomes too strong over a long period of time, the body is unable to get rid of all the heat. In this way, sunstroke can occur.

Causes of sunstroke

• Heatstroke occurs when the body is exposed to high temperatures for longer periods than what it is used to. At temperatures above 35°C, the risk increases considerably. Other risk factors are:

• Rapid temperature changes.

• Places with high humidity because the body sweats less.

• If you have high heat production due to hard physical work, febrile illness or due to certain medicines or narcotic substances.

• If you have a reduced ability to get rid of heat, such as obesity, dehydration, heart failure or alcohol intake.

• Children and the elderly also have a reduced ability to get rid of heat.

Symptoms of sunstroke

• The condition often develops slowly over several days. The first symptoms of sunstroke are:

• Body temperature above 40°C

• Dizziness

• Headache

• Nausea

• Gradually increasing heart rate

• Dry and warm skin

• No sweat

• Pees a little

• Breathing difficulties

As the condition progresses, the central nervous system may fail. This can lead to fogginess, convulsions or coma. At body temperatures above 42°C, the situation is very serious, as damage can occur to important organs such as the brain, liver and kidneys. This is a life-threatening condition and requires prompt hospital treatment.

Prevention of sunstroke

The body normally needs a few days to several weeks to get used to higher temperatures. Therefore, it is advisable to follow these tips if you stay in places with strong heat:

• Take frequent breaks from the sun.

• Stay indoors with air conditioning if it gets very hot.

• Wear light, light and loose-fitting clothes.

• Use a hat or an umbrella/parasol to protect yourself from the sun.

• Drink plenty of water during the day.

• Avoid tea, coffee, cola or alcohol, as these increase the excretion of water in the body. This increases the risk of becoming dehydrated.

• Avoid exercising or doing hard physical work that makes you sweat. Such activities should be done at cooler times (early morning or late evening).

• Make sure you get enough salts and electrolytes.

Self-treatment

If you notice symptoms, you should cool down quickly. Quick measures give a good prognosis.  

• Stay in a cool environment. Place fans around you.

• Take a cooling shower or bath.

• Apply cold compresses, such as ice packs or towels dipped in cold water.

• Drink ice cold drinks.

When should you contact a doctor in case of sunstroke?

• If you have warm and dry skin that does not sweat.

• If you experience confusion or loss of consciousness.

• If you have frequent vomiting.

• If you have shortness of breath or breathing difficulties.

Sources: Norwegian electronic medical handbook, emergency room handbook, Norwegian health informatics,