Causes and risk factors
This condition is due to depletion of water levels or depletion of salt levels in the body. Other causes include exposure to heat, exposure to humidity, strenuous physical activity, and lack of perspiration. Wearing excess clothing, alcohol are other possible factors causing heatstroke.
Clinical presentation
Heat stroke is characterised by high body temperature [above 104°F]. Patient presents with signs and symptoms like fatigue, fainting, headache, muscle cramps, nausea, vomiting, flushed skin, profuse sweating, increased heart rate, rapid heartbeat. There is intense smell of urine, dark colored urine. Accompanying symptoms include altered mental state, like delirium, irritability, slurred speech, confusion.
Investigation
Medical history by the patient and Clinical examination by the doctor helps in diagnosis. Routine blood tests, blood test for sodium and potassium levels is recommended. Urine analysis is advised. Muscle function test may be done. Imaging studies such as X ray is useful for further evaluation to check for damage to other organs.
Treatment
Heatstroke is a medical emergency. Applying cool water on skin, cold sponging or cool bath is required. Medication to reduce temperature is needed. Supportive care is given such as administration of intravenous fluids. Drinking enough fluids, loosening tight cloths, resting in cool place will contribute further to the treatment. Applying ice cooling blankets will also help in managing heatstroke.
Other Modes of treatment
The other modes of treatment can also be effective in treating heatstroke. Homoeopathy is a science which deals with individualization considers a person in a holistic way. This science can be helpful in combating the symptoms. Similarly the ayurvedic system of medicine which uses herbal medicines and synthetic derivates are also found to be effective in treating heatstroke.
