Heatstroke Awareness:
Prevention and Action

With summer in full swing, Filipinos are embracing the outdoors – going on picnics, flocking to beaches, climbing mountains, setting up camp, and more. Despite the allure of being close to nature and getting sun-kissed, the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) urges the people to be mindful of the extreme heat. The months of March, April, and May typically mark the peak of the hot and dry season in the Philippines. 

Soaring temperatures in March forced schools in Metro Manila and several provinces to announce in-person class suspensions, affecting millions of students. In April, PAGASA warned the public that some cities and municipalities in the Philippines may experience a “danger-level” heat index, ranging from 42°C to 44°C. According to PAGASA, areas with a 42°C to 51°C heat index fall under the danger category, which may lead to heat exhaustion, heat cramps, and heat stroke. 

Protect yourself and your loved ones from medical emergencies, especially during this extreme heat. Gain peace of mind by securing an emergency health card Philippines.

What is Heat Stroke?

Mayo Clinic defines heat stroke as a health issue caused by the body overheating, resulting from long exposure to high temperatures or prolonged physical activity in hot conditions. Heat stroke is the most serious heat-related illness which can occur if body temperature reaches 40°C or higher. Some groups face a higher risk of heat stroke, including infants, the elderly, outdoor workers, and physically active individuals.

With the intense heat already underway, heatstroke is a significant health risk this summer, making awareness and preventive measures crucial.

Risk Factors of Heat Stroke

  • Hot and humid conditions
  • Strenuous physical activity in hot weather
  • Not enough fluid intake (Dehydration)
  • Prolonged direct exposure to the sun

Danger Signs: Identifying Heat Stroke Symptoms

Knowing how to spot the danger signs of heat stroke is your first line of defense against this potentially life-threatening condition. With PAGASA’s heat index warnings, the ability to recognize the signs and symptoms of heat stroke can allow for timely intervention and safeguard lives. Symptoms of heat stroke according to the Mayo Clinic may include:

  • High body temperature – A core body temperature of 40°C or higher is the distinctive symptom of heat stroke.
  • Headache – Heat stroke may cause throbbing headache.
  • Nausea and vomiting – The individual may feel sick to their stomach or throw up.
  • Dizziness – The person may feel dizzy and lightheaded. 
  • Skin flushing – Heat stroke may result in skin flushing as body temperature rises.
  • Rapid heartbeat – Heat stress forces the heart to work significantly harder to cool the body, resulting in an increased pulse rate.
  • Altered sweating pattern – In heat stroke cases triggered by hot weather, the skin typically feels hot and dry. In contrast, profuse sweating may be observed when heat stroke is associated with strenuous exercise. 
  • Behavioral changes – The person may exhibit confusion, irritability, agitation, and slurred speech. In extreme cases, it can lead to seizures and even coma.
  • Other symptoms – Unconsciousness, shortness of breath, muscle weakness or cramping

Act Fast: Essential First Aid Steps

Heat stroke is considered a MEDICAL EMERGENCY. If you suspect someone is suffering from heatstroke, the DOH highly recommends bringing the person immediately to the hospital after doing the following emergency measures:

  • Get the person out of the heat and into a shady area or indoors. Have him/her lie down with legs raised. 
  • If the individual is conscious and able to drink, have him/her sip cool water while sitting down. Remove any unnecessary clothing and help lower the person’s temperature by applying cool water to the skin and fanning him/her. Target cooling points by placing ice packs on the armpits, wrists, ankles, and groin.

Your Best Defense: Guide to Heatstroke Prevention

Here are some easy and practical tips to beat the scorching heat this summer and shield yourself and your loved ones from heat-related illnesses, especially heat stroke. 

  • Minimize your time outdoors, especially during peak heat hours between 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM. Schedule strenuous activities during the cooler parts of the day: early morning (before 10:00 AM) or late afternoon (after 4:00 PM).
  • Stay hydrated by making it a habit of drinking water frequently, especially when active or outdoors. Avoid drinking fluids such as coffee, tea, soda, and alcohol. 
  • Opt for loose-fitting, light-colored, and breathable garments. When outdoors, protect yourself from the scorching sun by wearing a wide-brimmed hat and long-sleeved top.

Conclusion

Stay vigilant of the dangers of heat stroke, especially with the soaring temperatures in the Philippines. Don’t underestimate the dangers of heat stroke because it’s a potentially fatal condition. With combined awareness and proactive measures, you can have a safer and healthier summer.

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