Effects of Heat on Humans
Effects of Heat: There are 14 documented disorders which can be due to excess exposure to heat. Some of the common and important disorders are discussed below:
- Heat stroke: Also known as sunstroke. This is due to failure of heat regulating mechanism of human body . The main feature of heat stroke is very high body temperature of about 110 degree Fahrenheit(430 Centigrade). High temperature is accompanied by convulsion, delirium and partial or complete loss of consciousness. Skin is usually dry and hot. Sweating is absent or very scanty. Death rate is high (about 40%) even it quick medical attention is provided. Treatment of heat stroke consists of rapidly cooling the body in ice water till rectal temperature falls blow 102 degree Fahrenheit. Rectal temperature should be continuously monitored. It indicate the progress of treatment as well as guard against hypothermia, that may occur if cooling is continued for very long . Further treatment of heat stroke is supportive & symptomatic. The patient should be hospitalized for several days, till temperature control & regulatory mechanism become stable.
Categories: Environment & Health Tags: Heat cramps, Heat exhaustion, Heat Hyperpyrexia, Heat stroke, Heat syncope, Sunstroke
