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As summer brings longer days and warmer weather, it also increases the risk of heat-related illnesses, including fever and heat stroke. Climate change is causing more people around the world to experience extreme heat, and older adults are especially at risk. Heat-related deaths in people over 65 have increased by about 85% between 2000-2004 and 2017-2021. With rising temperatures, it's more important than ever to understand and prevent serious heat-related illnesses like heat stroke. In this blog post, we will learn about fever and heat stroke, their symptoms, treatments and prevention tips to take care of in summer.
Synopsis
- What is Fever?
- What are the Symptoms of Fever?
- What is Heat Stroke?
- What are the Symptoms of Heat Stroke?
- Risk factors associated with heat strokes
- Key Differences Between Fever and Heatstroke
- Prevention Strategies for Fever and Heat Stroke
- What to Do if Someone Exhibits Heat Stroke Symptoms
- Treatment Options
- Conclusion
What is Fever?
Fever is commonly associated with infections and illness in the winter season, but it can also affect people in the heat of summer. It is also referred to as the summer flu. A fever is a temporary rise in body temperature. It is a normal immune system reaction to infections, like viruses or bacteria. The normal range for body temperature is typically between 97°F (36.1°C) and 99°F (37.2°C); a temperature above this range is generally considered a fever. The summer flu may be caused by the common cold, stomach flu, food poisoning, or infection of the lungs.
What are the Symptoms of Fever?
Fever symptoms can include the following:
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High body temperature (more than 100.4°F)
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Sweating
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Headaches
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Sore throat
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Runny or blocked nose
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Painful muscles
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Weakness
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Shivering
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Loss of appetite
While a low fever is usually not harmful, high fevers, especially those that exceed 39.4°C (103°F), may need to be treated by a doctor, especially in young patients.
What is Heat Stroke?
Heat stroke, also called sunstroke, is a condition in which the body overheats and the body's temperature rises to more than 40 degrees Celsius (104°F). It is also referred to as hyperthermia. It usually happens due to long-term exposure or engaging in demanding physical activity in hot weather.
What are the Symptoms of Heat Stroke?
Heat stroke is a medical emergency that requires immediate treatment to prevent life-threatening injuries or even death. Acting quickly is crucial, which is why recognising the symptoms of heat stroke is essential. Some common symptoms include:
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A core body temperature of 104°F (40°C) or higher
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Anxiety, loss of consciousness, slurred speech, or confusion
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The body's inability to sweat may result in red, dry skin
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Nausea and vomiting may occur as the body reacts to overheating
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The body's attempt to cool down may cause the heart to beat more quickly
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Continuous headaches
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Laziness and weakness
If you or someone you know is experiencing these symptoms, get emergency medical attention immediately.
Risk factors associated with heat strokes
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Occupation: Individuals who work in hot weather or intense physical activity sectors, like agricultural workers, construction workers, and athletes, are at higher risk
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Age: It affects people over the age of 50, but young children can also be at risk.
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Medical condition: Pregnant women, dehydrated individuals, those with bacterial or viral infections, or those suffering from cardiovascular disease are at greater risk
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Medications: Some medications can interfere with the body’s ability to cool down and lead to dehydration.
Key Differences Between Fever and Heatstroke
|
Comparison |
Fever |
Heatstroke |
|
Onset |
The symptoms develop gradually as the body fights infection. |
The symptoms have a sudden onset due to excessive heat exposure. |
|
Symptoms |
Common symptoms include high temperature, sweating, headache, chills, muscle aches, and loss of appetite. |
Individuals with heatstroke develop a high body temperature of more than 104°F, confusion, nausea, rapid heart rate, and dry skin. |
|
Cause |
Caused by bacterial infections (e.g., cold, flu). |
Caused by prolonged exposure to heat or intense physical activity in hot weather. |
|
Treatment |
Rest, hydration, antipyretics |
Immediate cooling, IV fluids, and medical intervention. |
|
Severity |
Not life-threatening, unless the temperature exceeds 104°F. |
A medical emergency, which may lead to organ failure or death if not treated. |
|
Prevention |
Maintain hygiene, avoid infection, and get vaccinated |
Avoid extreme heat, maintain hydration, wear loose clothing, and apply sunscreen. |
Prevention Strategies for Fever and Heat Stroke
Here are essential tips to keep yourself and your loved ones safe during the hot summer months and prevent dehydration:
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Sip lots of water throughout the day, even if you don't feel thirsty. Stay away from alcohol- and caffeine-containing beverages, as they can cause dehydration.
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During the hottest hours of the day, which are typically from 10 AM to 4 PM, try to stay indoors. Take regular rests in the shade if you must engage in outside activities.
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Avoid consuming street food or drinking contaminated water.
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Wearing loose-fitting, light-coloured clothing will help you stay cool. For additional protection, put on sunglasses and a hat with a wide brim.
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Avoid sunburn, as it can hinder your body's ability to regulate its temperature. Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least 30 SPF. Reapply sunscreen every two hours.
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If you are not used to hot weather, gradually increase your exposure over a few days to allow your body to adapt.
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Never leave anyone in a parked car, especially little children, as even with slightly open windows and in shade, the temperature can rise by 20°F (11°C) in just ten minutes. To keep kids from sneaking inside your parked car, always lock your car.
What to Do if Someone Exhibits Heat Stroke Symptoms
If you find someone is suffering from a heat stroke, follow these steps while waiting for medical help:
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Move the person into a cool, shaded area or an air-conditioned one to avoid the heat.
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Make sure their clothes are loose enough to let the heat out.
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Use cool water, ice packs, or cold compresses on key areas such as the neck, armpits, and groin. If possible, take a cool shower or bath.
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Offer water or a sports drink if the person is conscious and able to swallow themselves. Don't give them caffeine or alcohol.
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Take note of their temperature using a thermometer. Keep trying to chill the body until it reaches 101°F (38.3°C) or below.
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Call for medical assistance as soon as possible. If heat stroke is not treated immediately, it might have major consequences.
Treatment Options
For Fever:
Fever can be treated with the following:
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Intravenous (IV) Fluids: To ensure adequate hydration, particularly in cases where the patient is dehydrated.
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Antipyretics: To lower fever and ease discomfort, doctors may prescribe drugs such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen.
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Antibiotics or Antivirals: If a bacterial or viral infection is the cause of the fever, the appropriate medication will be administered to address the underlying cause.
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Cooling Techniques: Ice packs or cooling blankets may be used to lower body temperature in severe circumstances.
For Heat Stroke:
Hospitalisation is usually necessary for heat stroke, which is a medical emergency. Possible treatment entails:
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Intravenous fluids: To replenish electrolyte balance and hydrate the body.
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Cooling Techniques: In medical settings, sophisticated cooling techniques like ice baths and cooling blankets may be used.
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Medication: Drugs like Benzodiazepines may be used in some cases to reduce shivering and lower oxygen use, but they are not needed for every patient.
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Monitoring and Assistance: Health professionals will keep an eye on patients' vital signs and offer assistance if there are any issues, like organ damage.
Conclusion
As summer approaches, it's critical to be aware of the risks related to fever and heat stroke for your health and safety. By being aware of the symptoms, taking preventive measures, and knowing how to respond in an emergency, you can enjoy the warmth of summer while protecting yourself and those around you. If you have further questions or concerns about fever, heat stroke or any other summer health issues, don’t hesitate to contact our specialist at Manipal Hospitals, Ghaziabad.
FAQ's
No, heat stroke and heat exhaustion are not the same. Heat exhaustion may turn into heat stroke if not treated on time. Heat exhaustion occurs when the body dehydrates, usually due to heavy sweating. Symptoms of heat exhaustion include excessive sweating, tiredness, pale skin, increased heart rate, and feeling thirsty.
Yes, if heat stroke is not treated quickly, it can harm vital organs, including the brain, kidneys, and heart. Severe cases may result in death.
The diagnosis of heat stroke is made by assessing symptoms such as rapid breathing, confusion, and elevated body temperature (over 104°F or 40°C). For precision, doctors typically use a rectal thermometer to measure the patient's core body temperature. To evaluate organ function and potential problems, other tests, like blood and urine tests, might be performed. For treatment to be effective, a prompt diagnosis is essential.
Although fevers are commonly associated with colds or flu in the winter, they can occur in any season, including summer. Summertime fevers are often caused by bacterial or viral infections, dehydration, and heat-related illnesses such as heat exhaustion or heat stroke.
It's generally advised to drink at least 8 to 10 glasses of water per day, though individual needs may differ. Even if you're not thirsty, drink more fluids when it's hot outside or when you're exercising.
You can schedule an appointment at Manipal Hospitals, Ghaziabad, by contacting us or visiting our website.
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