Sun stroke
Sun stroke occurs when you subject your uncovered head to prolonged exposure to direct sunlight. The high temperature heats the scalp, leading to slight inflammation and swelling of the meninges.
Symptoms
- Dizziness
- Headache
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- In serious cases, loss of consciousness
How to treat sun stroke
- Get the sufferer to lie down in a cool, well-ventilated area
- Give them plenty of fluids
- Place a cold, damp compress around their neck
- Relieve any headache with painkillers
- If the symptoms are still present or worsen after 24 hours, seek medical assistance
How to prevent sun stroke
- Cover your head when exposed to sunlight
- Try to stay out of the sun between 11 am and 3 pm
- Stay hydrated
Heatstroke
Heatstroke occurs when the body is unable to shed excess heat and gets too hot. As well as high temperatures, heatstroke can also be caused by humid air or heavy clothing.
Symptoms
- Headache
- Rapid heartbeat
- Heavy breathing, muscle cramps
- High temperature
- Flushed, dry skin
- Confusion, loss of consciousness and muscle cramps can also occur
How to treat heat stroke
- Call a doctor, heat stroke is a serious condition
Until the doctor arrives:
- Get the sufferer to lie down in a cool, well-ventilated area
- Place a cold, damp compress around their neck and head
- Give them cold water to drink
How to prevent heat stroke
- Wear lightweight and light-colored clothing
- Make sure you get enough liquids and replace lost salts
- Avoid hot or heavy food
