How to Stay Cool and Avoid Heat Stroke during Hot Summer Days?
What happens when the body overheats?
Under normal circumstances, the human body can regulate its temperature effectively. When exposed to excessive heat, the body relies on sweating to cool down. However, prolonged exposure to high temperatures without adequate fluid intake can disrupt this cooling process. Dehydration impairs the body’s ability to regulate temperature through sweating, leading to a dangerous rise in body heat that can result in illness.
What’s heat stroke?
Heat stroke is a critical and potentially life-threatening form of heat-related illness. It is characterized by a body temperature of 105 degrees Fahrenheit or higher, accompanied by neurological symptoms such as mental confusion or loss of consciousness. At such elevated temperatures, body proteins and cell membranes, particularly in the brain, start to deteriorate or malfunction. The intense heat can inflict damage on internal organs, leading to heart muscle cell breakdown, blood vessel impairment, organ damage, and even death.
What are heat stroke symptoms?
The initial signs of heat-related illnesses display as the body temperature surpasses normal levels, presenting symptoms like headache, nausea, vomiting, muscle cramps, and fatigue. These early indicators are often referred to as heat exhaustion. If prompt measures are not taken to lower the body temperature, heat exhaustion can progress to a more severe condition known as heat stroke.
How to prevent heat stroke?
Many cases of heat stroke can be avoided by taking the following precautions when temperatures are high:
- Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day.
- Seek shelter indoors in a place with air conditioning if you start feeling overheated.
- Dress in light-coloured, lightweight clothing made of breathable fabric to allow air circulation.
- Avoid engaging in strenuous activities during the hottest hours of the day (between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.). If necessary, take regular breaks, remove helmets between activities, and avoid heavy uniforms or gear.
- Limit consumption of caffeine and alcohol, as they can contribute to dehydration.
- If you experience symptoms like fatigue, dizziness, nausea, or headaches, move to a cooler environment immediately. Find a place with air conditioning, drink water, and consider taking a cool shower or using a hose to cool down.
5 Ayurveda Home Remedies to Effectively Fight Heat Stroke
1. Onion Juice
Onion juice is considered a highly effective home remedy for treating heat strokes, often recommended by Ayurvedic practitioners. Simply apply a small amount of the juice behind your ears or on your chest to help lower your body temperature. Alternatively, you can consume raw onions with chutney or in a salad for similar benefits.
2. Coriander and Mint Juice
Coriander and mint juice are beneficial home remedies for treating heat stroke as both herbs can help lower body temperature. Drinking this juice with sugar can help cool the body down.
3. Aam Panna
Aam Panna is a revitalizing beverage that serves as a dual-purpose health elixir. Crafted from raw mangoes and a blend of spices, it offers a cooling effect on the body. It is recommended to enjoy this drink two to three times a day. Enriched with cooling spices such as cumin, fennel, pepper, and kala namak, Aam Panna delivers a combination of energy and essential electrolytes.
4. Tulsi and Rosewater
Mixing tulsi seeds with rose water can help cool your body quickly. Fennel seeds are also considered a cooling spice. Soak a handful of fennel seeds in water overnight, strain, and drink the water in the morning to stay cool and protected from the heat.
5. Aloe Vera
Aloe vera is a plant that is rich in vitamins and minerals. In addition to this, it is considered an adaptogen, which means it helps the body adapt to changes in the environment and strengthens the body’s defences. Adaptogens are known to help regulate the body’s systems. Ayurveda recommends using aloe vera gel to treat prickly heat.
In case of suspected heatstroke, contact emergency services immediately. Move the individual away from the heat promptly and employ various methods to cool them down, such as placing them in a cool bath or shower, spraying them with water, sponging them with cool water, fanning them while misting them with cool water, applying ice packs or cool, wet towels to specific areas, covering them with cool, damp sheets, and providing chilled water or a sports drink without caffeine if conscious. If the person loses consciousness and displays no signs of circulation, including breathing or movement, initiate CPR.
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Blog Author: Dr Ashwini Borate
Expert Review: Dr Smita Pankaj Naram
Co-Founder, Ayushakti Ayurved Pvt Ltd
Disclaimer: This blog is for educational purposes only. Please consult an Ayurvedic practitioner before trying or consuming any medicines, home remedies or treatments mentioned in this blog. The information provided is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.