WHAT IS SUN STROKE? Sunstroke is a life –threatening condition in which the bodys heat regulating system fails, due to exposure to high temperature. ALTERNATIVE NAMES HEAT STOKE.

CAUSES Sun stoke is caused by a failure in your bodys cooling system. When it is cooling system fails, your body is overwhelmed by excess heat, this uis when sun stroke occurs. Anything that disrupts your bodys thermostat can increase likelihood of sun stroke. These may include such factors as underlying medical conditions, medication physical characteristics, or age.

Any one expose to high temperature is at risk of sun stroke, but the following groups are at particularly high risk and must take special precaution to avoid hot, poorly ventilated place and exertion in hot weather: Young children. Who gets sun stroke and who is at risk?

Elderly people. People with certain chronic condition such as: Arteriosclerosis and congestive heart failure. Diabetes mellitus. Alcoholism. Skin disorders that may impede heat loss such as ectodermal dysplasia, congential absence of the sweat glands, or severe sclerodema. People taking part in certain types of sporting activities, such as long-distance running or cycling..

 Symptoms of sun stoke may include:  Hot dry skin.  Skin is first flushed, then pale or purple.  Hyperventilation.  Rapid bonding pulse.  Head ache.  Body temperature rises rapidly to 40C or higher.  Muscle cramps.  Dilated pupils.  Convulsions.  Loss of consciousness.  Tense or aching muscles.

More careful control measure are used in hospital with temperature measurement and regulation.core temperature is monitored continously to avoid hypothermia. Blood tests are used to determine salt and electrolyte levels and fluid therapy is started to correct imbalances. Careful observation for signs of fluid and salt imbalance, and complications such as kidney failure, will be required for several weeks after the initial episode. Temperature changes may be expected for several weeks following the episode.

Drink plenty of water you spend a lot of time in the sun or a hot environment before, during and after exercise also. Don’t wait untill you feel thirsty to drink, particularly if you have been sweating. Rest during the hottest part of the day. Limit exposure to the sun. Wear a hat or cap especially working in the sun. Open windows or use a fan to improve indoor air circulation. Eat high and small meals. Ask your doctor whether any medications you are taking may interfere with your bodys temperature regulation. Be able to recognise the danger signs of heat related illness.