Record temperatures are taking their toll in many parts of the world. The heat wave also reached Poland. The Institute of Meteorology and Water Management has prepared a first aid guide, incl. in the event of heat stroke. This knowledge can come in handy at home and on vacation!
- The hot summer in Poland continues. The last few days have seen record high temperatures
- It is worth knowing that the heat is particularly stressful for our body, and staying in the sun for too long can lead to heat stroke.
- What are its first symptoms? And do you know what to do if someone right next to you feels worse by being in the sun for too long? The Institute of Meteorology and Water Management has a handful of useful tips for hot weather
- You can find more such stories on the TvoiLokony home page
Limit sun exposure, avoid unnecessary physical exertion, drink plenty of fluids, stay cool, provide shelter and water for animals – these advice seems obvious, but it’s worth remembering during a heatwave. On vacation, we like to sunbathe, but during a heat wave, be careful about staying in full sun. If you go outside – use glasses, a hat, and sunscreen.
- Ophthalmologist: if you are going to wear such glasses, it is better not to wear them at all
The hot vademecum developed by IMGW also shows how to help if someone feels worse during hot weather or suffers a heat stroke. Here are some helpful tips.
Heat stroke – symptoms and first aid
First of all – it’s worth knowing symptoms of heat stroke. Those are:
- high body temperature (above 39 degrees C),
- hot and dry skin,
- increased heart rate
- delirium (delirium, raving),
- convulsions, convulsions,
- unconsciousness.
If you notice such symptoms in someone – do not hesitate call the emergency number 112to get medical attention. We must be vigilant while waiting for an ambulance. What to do and what not to do while waiting for the medical services to arrive? IMGW advises:
- gently take the injured person to a cool, shaded and airy place,
- place in a supine position with head and legs up (unconscious) or half-sitting (conscious),
- clear the airways and check basic vital functions,
- unfasten or take off unnecessary and restricting movements,
- start cooling down the body: apply cool compresses to the neck, armpits and groin, fan and cool the skin by spraying water at 25-30 ° C,
- every 10 minutes measure body temperature, continue cooling until it drops below 38 degrees C,
- do not give fluids,
- do not give any medications!
If breathing or cardiac arrest is achieved, initiate CPR. How to do it? Check: First aid. How to give it? [WE EXPLAIN]
Hot weather – what should worry us?
In hot weather, we should pay attention to less dramatic symptoms. IMGW recommends:
- Report to a loved one or a colleague if you feel chills, weakness and restlessness, severe thirst or headache. When these symptoms occur, move to a cool place, rest, and replenish your fluids.
- If you feel limb cramps, quickly replenish fluids with electrolytes. They will be provided, for example, by sports drinks.
- If your contractions continue after an hour’s rest in a cooler place and replenished fluids, use medical support.
See also: What are the most common symptoms of dehydration?
The IMGW heatwave guide can be downloaded here.