Heat stroke is seen in hot and humid climates where the body can not get rid of excessive body heat.

A hot and humid climate is a strain on the body, as we need to get rid of excess body heat. Travellers with chronic heart and lung diseases should discuss travelling with their physician and should sleep in rooms with air-conditioning. During the first few days after arrival, the body loses large amounts of salt through perspiration, and salt depletion may cause vertigo and unconsciousness. Taking extra salt during the first 3 to 4 days after arrival prevents salt depletion.

Heat stroke

Heat stroke is an acute, life threatening condition where the body cannot get rid of heat. The condition is seen in hot, humid climates and poor physical condition often in connection with excessive alcohol predisposes to heat stroke.In the beginning the symptoms are general malaise and reduced perspiration. The dry skin becomes opaque and red with severe headaches and reduced consciousness following.

During this time the body temperature rises rapidly, and treatment is necessary.

Heat stroke is avoided by:

• Adjust physical activity to your physical condition
• Drink water abundantly
• Avoid tight and thick clothes
• Include salt in your diet if your physician approves.

Treatment of heat stroke

• Undress the patient and cover him/her with wet towels and direct an electric fan towards them
• Place the patient in a bath tub with cold water and massage the skin at the same time to increase blood circulation
• Urgent medical treatment is needed if possible.