DOH issues tips vs heat stroke

MANILA, Philippines — With temperatures rising this summer, the Department of Health (DOH) on Saturday issued some tips to prevent heat stroke and severe exhaustion.

According to Health Undersecretary Maria Rosario Vergeire, the public should be on alert for the signs of heat stroke, which is a result of “extreme heat that affects the body temperature’s regulatory functions.”

Vergeire said heat stroke occurs when a person suffers from dehydration due to excessive sweating.

She advised the people to drink enough fluids to prevent dehydration.

“When the weather is hot, it is important to drink eight glasses of water or more every day. Wear clothes that are comfortable and avoid going outside when the sun is at its hottest,” she said.

Vergeire added it is necessary to wear a hat or use an umbrella when outdoors and take a bath as frequently as possible.

Based on the DOH website, heat stroke is the most severe form of illness when the body overheats and cannot cool down. This happens when the body cannot take off the excessive heat by sweating because of dehydration and humid environment.

Heat stroke is characterized by warm, flushed skin, faintness, dizziness, weakness, headache, high fever, rapid heartbeat, convulsion and unconsciousness.

As first-aid treatment, the DOH recommends emergency measures such as placing an affected person indoor or under a shady spot, lying down with legs elevated, sipping cold water, removing clothing and applying cool water to the skin, as well as application of ice packs to the armpits, wrists, ankle and groin.

The DOH said heat stroke is a medical emergency so the patient must be brought immediately to the hospital after manifesting symptoms.