Beat the heat: Prevent heat stroke with simple protective measures

22/05/2025

Beat the heat: Prevent heat stroke with simple protective measures

As summer heat intensifies, heat stroke awareness and prevention are key.

KUWAIT CITY, May 22: As temperatures climb steadily through the summer season, the risk of heat stroke is rising sharply. The intense sunlight and high heat levels are causing widespread discomfort and pose serious health threats, including potentially fatal cases of heat stroke. A health expert has issued guidelines on recognizing the symptoms, understanding the effects, and implementing preventive measures to protect against heat-related illnesses.

What is heat stroke?

Heat stroke is a severe heat-related condition that occurs when the body's temperature regulation fails, often after prolonged exposure to high temperatures. It is considered a medical emergency and can lead to serious complications, including damage to internal organs such as the brain and heart. Individuals exposed to temperatures above 40.5°C (105°F) for more than one to two hours are especially vulnerable.

Symptoms to watch for

Early symptoms of heat stroke include:

Hot, red, and dry skinn
Lack of sweating despite the heatn
Rapid heartbeat and shallow breathingn
Headache, nausea, and dizzinessn
Fatigue, weakness, and confusionn
Reduced or no urinationn

In extreme cases, the high temperature can cause high blood pressure, impair heart function, and even lead to unconsciousness or death if not treated promptly.

Protective measures

A dermatologist expert emphasized that the skin is the first part of the body affected by extreme heat. To protect yourself:

Wear light, soft, and breathable cotton clothing that absorbs sweat and allows airflow.n
Always cover your head with a scarf, hat, or umbrella when exposed to direct sunlight.n
Apply coconut oil to sun-exposed areas after being outdoors to prevent sunburn.n
Use a good-quality sunscreen or skin lotion to protect against harmful UV rays.n

Dietary and hydration tips

Staying hydrated is crucial in preventing heat stroke:

Drink water mixed with lemon and salt two to three times daily.n
Consume fruit juice or sabool (barley water) regularly, as they help cool the body naturally.n
Avoid drinking cold water immediately after coming in from the sun.n
Do not move abruptly between air-conditioned spaces and outdoor heat.n
Never go out in the sun on an empty stomach.n
Eat light meals and include yoghurt in your diet.n
Avoid oily and spicy foods, as they strain the digestive system in hot weather.n

Practical steps to stay safe

Avoid peak heat hours: Try to stay indoors during the hottest parts of the day.n
Use sun protection: Carry an umbrella or wear a wide-brimmed hat and full-sleeved clothing when outdoors.
Use of sunscreen: Applying sunscreen regularly helps protect your skin from harmful UV rays and reduces the risk of heat stroke by preventing sunburn and skin damage.n
Stay hydrated: Drink water frequently, along with seasonal juices, ORS, coconut water, and sugarcane juice.n
First aid for heat stroke: Move the affected person to a cool, shaded area. Sponge the body with a wet cloth or use cool water to reduce body temperature. Apply an ice pack to the head until the body temperature falls below 100°F (37.8°C).n

Heat stroke can escalate quickly and should never be taken lightly. With awareness and simple precautions, it is possible to stay safe and healthy even in the most extreme heat. Authorities urge the public to take these guidelines seriously and look out for vulnerable individuals, especially the elderly and children.