[Kok! Health] Heatstroke Patients Surge During Heatwave... How to Handle Symptoms?

As the heatwave intensifies, cases of heat-related illnesses and deaths are increasing. According to the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency on the 5th, from May 20, when the heat illness surveillance system was activated this year, to the 3rd, there have been a cumulative total of 1,520 heat illness patients and an estimated 19 deaths. On the 29th, there were 7 heat illness deaths in a single day, marking the highest daily record since surveillance began in 2011.

Elderly individuals or those suffering from chronic diseases such as hypertension, heart disease, and diabetes need to be especially cautious as the heatwave can worsen underlying conditions. With the help of Professor Son Ki-young from the Department of Family Medicine at Seoul Asan Medical Center, we explored the types of heat-related illnesses and their preventive measures.

Hot summer [Image source=Yonhap News]

Q. What if there is insufficient hydration and electrolyte replenishment after prolonged exposure to heat? ‘Heat exhaustion (heat syncope)’

Heat exhaustion can occur when staying in a high-temperature environment for a long time without adequate fluid replacement. Symptoms include dizziness, fatigue, nausea, weakness, fever, sweating, flushing, tachycardia, vomiting, and confusion. Also called ‘heat syncope,’ it requires resting in a cool place and replenishing water and electrolytes. However, if a high fever above 40 degrees Celsius or changes in consciousness are observed, aggressive treatment such as rapid cooling therapy may be necessary.

Q. What if someone has been exposed to heat for a long time but is not sweating and experiences nausea, vomiting, and changes in consciousness? ‘Heat stroke’

Heat stroke occurs in elderly people, heart disease patients, dementia patients, alcoholics, and those with mental illnesses when exposed to a hot and humid environment for an extended period. Although symptoms may appear similar to heat exhaustion (heat syncope), heat stroke is characterized by the absence of sweating. Instead, severe nausea, vomiting, and altered consciousness occur. Core body temperature exceeds 40 degrees Celsius. In this case, the patient should be immediately moved to the shade, loosened from clothing, wiped with cool wet towels, and 119 (emergency services) should be called quickly for hospital transport. Giving the patient cold water to drink may help lower body temperature, but caution is needed as unconscious patients may choke.

Q. What if muscle cramps occur after prolonged exercise in the heat? ‘Heat cramps’

During summer heat, prolonged exercise causes excessive sweating compared to usual, which can easily lead to muscle cramps. The exact cause is not clearly known but is likely related to electrolyte imbalance. When heat cramps occur, the affected muscles should be stretched in a cool shaded area. Intense exercise should be avoided for at least a few hours. Resting while drinking or replenishing fluids containing electrolytes helps recovery. If electrolyte drinks are not available, adding one or two teaspoons of salt to 1 liter of water can be used as a substitute.

Q. What if someone faints due to inability to adapt to extreme heat? ‘Heat syncope’

Exposure to scorching heat can cause elderly people or children to fail to adapt to external temperatures. Mild fainting symptoms may appear due to decreased blood volume and peripheral vasodilation. Simple heat syncope usually recovers easily with rest. Find a cool shaded area, monitor breathing and pulse, lower the head, and replenish fluids.

Q. What if the skin becomes hot and, in severe cases, blisters form? ‘Sunburn’

Prolonged exposure to intense sunlight can cause the skin to become red and painful. In severe cases, blisters may form, and the face and limbs may swell and become hot. This is called sunburn, literally a burn from sunlight. To prevent sunburn, avoid going outdoors from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on clear summer days without clouds, as direct sunlight is strongest during this time. At other times, cover exposed skin with thin outerwear or apply sunscreen thoroughly 30 minutes before going outside. If symptoms occur, apply cold compresses. If pain is severe, it can be managed with analgesic anti-inflammatory drugs.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.