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How To Avoid Hyperthermia

man suffering from hyperthermia

It is very important to understand what hyperthermia is, how it occurs and how you can avoid it. Hopefully, the following article will help you to achieve that.

What Is Hyperthermia?
Hyperthermia is a condition that happens when the body starts to produce more heat than it is able to rid itself off.

Causes of hyperthermia can be multiple, but it usually occurs as a direct result from extreme heat exposure, thereby causing the body to overheat to an extent that it can no longer cool down. It is a very serious medical condition and requires immediate medical treatment, as it can prove fatal.

Another reason why hyperthermia occurs is when people physically exhaust themselves. There are a number of conditions that place people at greater risk from this, in particular any that leads to high fevers. The very young and the elderly are also at greater risk of developing hyperthermia.

How to Avoid Hyperthermia
It is very much possible to avoid this condition from happening. It is important to start with clothing. Light clothing must be worn in high temperatures, so that they body is able to sweat. This is why they should be loose fitting as well. Try to wear clothing that is made of linen, as this absorbs heat, leaving the body cooler. Alternatively, cotton works very well as well. The head should also be covered with a hat, preferably one that protects the neck.

Next, it is vital to stay properly hydrated. Even if there are no feelings of thirst, it is essential to drink regularly. Many people do not notice their bodies perspiring and will have no concept of there no longer being any fluids for them to cool down. Hydration is important not just to continue to have the ability to sweat and thereby cool the body down, but also in terms of keeping a healthy blood circulation.

Next, people should always avoid areas that are too warm. If you have to be inside, make sure that the room is properly ventilated or that it has air conditioning or a proper ventilation system. With hyperthermia temperature in the area in which you are located must be controlled in order to help your body cool down too. Diet is also important and avoiding heavy meals before going into the sun can be a real life saver. This is because eating heavy meals can actually lead to tiredness.

If you must go out into the sun, you must ensure you minimize the level of exposure you experience. Too many people like to sit in the sun for hours and hours, working on their sun tan. This is why there is even a link between hyperthermia and cancer. Sun worshiping to this extent can dehydrate the body, besides burning the skin. Furthermore, it is actually exhausting, causing even greater difficulties to the body. It takes some time for your body to become accustomed to new temperatures, so give yourself a few days to acclimatize if you are on vacation.

Last but not least, there are certain substances that can increase the risk of developing hyperthermia. These include nicotine and caffeine.These substances cause further dehydration. Alcohol is particularly dangerous, as it is a strong diuretic.Furthermore, because it will leave you less capable of making intelligent decisions, you are more likely to spend too much time in the sun.

Things to Remember
Although certain people are at higher risk of hyperthermia (the sick, the elderly and the young), it can happen to anybody and it can happen in any type of weather. Older people are at greater risk, particularly if they are using certain types of medication. It is also important to take great care with the very young, who still have very thin skin.

Hyperthermia Symptoms
If you notice any of the following symptoms, please seek medical attention straight away:
• Disorientation
• Headaches
• Nausea
• Tiredness

It is especially important to seek medical attention if these symptoms seem to suddenly come on after some time in the sun.

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