Heatstroke warning: Recognising the signs

As the number of cases of heatstroke in Thailand continues to rise, it becomes increasingly important for locals and tourists alike to be aware of this life-threatening condition. With its tropical climate, characterised by high temperatures and humidity, it is crucial for visitors to be well-informed about the risks associated with heatstroke and how to prevent it while enjoying the beauty and charm of this exotic destination.

Heatstroke

Heatstroke, also known as sunstroke or hyperthermia, is a severe form of heat-related illness that occurs when the body’s temperature regulation system is overwhelmed by external heat. Heatstroke does not occur immediately upon stepping out into the sun. It usually develops over time due to prolonged exposure to high temperatures and direct sunlight without taking proper precautions.

When the body is unable to dissipate heat effectively, its core temperature can rise rapidly, leading to potentially fatal consequences. Symptoms of heatstroke can include a high body temperature (above 104°F or 40°C), a rapid and strong pulse, a throbbing headache, dizziness, nausea, confusion, and even unconsciousness. The combination of intense sunlight, high humidity, and limited airflow can create a dangerous environment for the body to maintain its normal temperature.

The body has natural mechanisms to regulate its temperature, such as sweating and increasing blood circulation near the skin surface. However, when these mechanisms are overwhelmed by excessive heat and humidity, the body may no longer be able to maintain a normal temperature, leading to heat exhaustion and eventually heatstroke if left unaddressed.

Types of heatstroke

1. Exertional Heatstroke (EHS)

This type of heatstroke occurs due to intense physical activity, often in hot and humid conditions. EHS is commonly seen in athletes, military personnel, and labourers who engage in demanding physical tasks. The body generates excessive internal heat during vigorous exercise, and when combined with environmental factors, the body’s cooling mechanisms can become overwhelmed, leading to heatstroke.

2. Non-Exertional Heatstroke (NEHS) or Classic heatstroke

This type occurs due to prolonged exposure to high temperatures, often in combination with high humidity, without necessarily engaging in strenuous physical activity. NEHS is more common in vulnerable populations, such as the elderly, infants, and individuals with pre-existing health conditions or taking medications that impair the body’s temperature regulation. This type of heatstroke can also result from being confined in hot environments, like a closed vehicle, without adequate ventilation or cooling.

Recognising the signs of heatstroke

1. High body temperature

Heatstroke causes high body temperature due to the failure of the body’s temperature regulation system. Normally, our bodies cool down by sweating and increasing blood flow near the skin. However, when it gets too hot or humid, or we engage in intense exercise, these processes may not be enough to maintain a safe body temperature.

As a result, the body’s temperature rises, leading to the fatal condition of heatstroke. High body temperature can cause damage to organs and even become life-threatening if not treated immediately. In heatstroke, the body’s core temperature rises significantly, typically reaching 104°F (40°C) or higher. It is crucial to recognise the signs of heatstroke and seek immediate medical attention when the body temperature reaches such dangerous levels, as prolonged high temperatures can lead to severe complications, organ damage, and even death.

2. Altered mental state

Heatstroke can cause an altered mental state due to the effect of high body temperature on the brain and the central nervous system.

As the core temperature rises during heatstroke, the brain’s normal functioning may become disrupted, leading to various neurological symptoms. These can include confusion, agitation, irritability, delirium, seizures, and even coma. The altered mental state is a critical warning sign of heatstroke and indicates that the condition has become severe, requiring immediate medical attention to prevent potential long-term damage or even death.

3. Alteration in sweating

In heatstroke caused by hot weather, the skin may feel hot and dry to the touch, as the body is unable to produce enough sweat to effectively cool down. This can be due to dehydration, which reduces the body’s ability to produce sweat, or to high humidity levels, which impede the evaporation process, making it harder for sweat to cool the body.

On the other hand, in heatstroke caused by strenuous physical activity, the skin may feel moist or even excessively sweaty. This is because the body is generating a large amount of internal heat due to the intense exercise, which causes an increase in sweat production. However, despite the increased sweating, the body may still struggle to dissipate the excess heat, leading to a continued rise in core temperature and the development of heatstroke.

4. Nausea and vomiting

Heatstroke can cause nausea and vomiting because the high body temperature affects how our bodies work, including the digestive system. When we’re experiencing heatstroke, our body is busy trying to cool down, which can reduce blood flow to the stomach and cause feelings of nausea.

Additionally, the high temperature can affect our brain, which may trigger vomiting. It’s important to recognise and address these symptoms quickly because they can make dehydration worse, and that makes it even harder for our body to cool down and function properly.

5. Rapid breathing

Heatstroke leads to rapid breathing as the body tries to cool down and ensure sufficient oxygen supply to organs.

Rapid breathing, also known as hyperventilation, can help the body dissipate heat by increasing air circulation around the skin and enhancing evaporation, which has a cooling effect. However, if the body is unable to effectively reduce its core temperature through these mechanisms, the symptoms of heatstroke can worsen, making it crucial to seek medical attention promptly.

6. Throbbing headache

The elevated core temperature can cause blood vessels in the head to dilate, increasing blood flow and pressure in the area, resulting in a throbbing sensation. Additionally, dehydration and electrolyte imbalances, which can occur during heatstroke, can contribute to the development of headaches.

the strain on the body and the altered mental state associated with heatstroke can worsen the headache. Recognising and addressing a throbbing headache as a potential symptom of heatstroke is essential to ensure timely treatment and prevent severe complications.

7. Swelling

In response to high temperatures, blood vessels near the skin expand, allowing more blood to flow and release heat. However, this expansion can also cause fluids to leak from the vessels into nearby tissues, resulting in swelling, especially in the hands, feet, or ankles.

Moreover, heatstroke often causes dehydration and electrolyte imbalances, which can impair the body’s fluid regulation, further contributing to swelling. Recognising swelling as a possible heatstroke symptom is crucial to ensure prompt medical intervention and prevent complications.

Prevent heatstroke

Both types of heatstroke can be life-threatening and require immediate medical attention. Prevention measures, such as staying hydrated, wearing appropriate clothing, and avoiding excessive sun exposure or intense physical activity during peak heat hours, are essential to reduce the risk of heatstroke. It may also interest you to read how to keep yourself safe in Thailand’s scorching humidity. Even though Thailand is one of the hottest countries, it can give you the best experience beach during summer, check out our partner’s website ‘Agoda‘ to find your best accommodation.