Heatstroke is every bit as dangerous as it sounds, and here’s why: if not treated immediately, it can result in damage to your brain, kidneys, heart, and muscles. Furthermore, and in the most severe cases, it has the potential to cause death.
For this reason, it’s critical that you’re aware of the early warning signs of heatstroke. These include but are not always limited to:
• High body temperature: The number one sign of heatstroke is a core body temperature of 104 F or higher.
• Vomiting and nausea: Heatstroke may cause you to feel sick to your stomach, which often results in vomiting.
• Changes to your mental behavior: This can include things such as irritability, confusion, and even seizures.
• Headache: Heatstroke can cause a severe headache.
• Rapid breathing: As heatstroke sets in, your breathing may become shallow and more rapid.
If you suspect heatstroke, don’t hesitate to take action. The first thing you should do is move out of the heat, such as into your air-conditioned home. Then, since it’s better to be safe than sorry, seek emergency medical treatment.
With summer temperatures soaring high, don’t ignore the signs of heatstroke. This is a serious ailment that requires your immediate attention.
Jennifer Ferdinand, owner of Serendipity Wellness Studio in Burke, VA, has been practicing massage therapy and esthetics since 2006. She is nationally certified through NCBTMB, and licensed in Virginia for both Massage Therapy and Esthetics.
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