In the “Health 1+1” program, Chen Junru, director of the Wonderful TCM Clinic in Taiwan, discussed ways to prevent and treat heatstroke, as well as foods that can help cool the body.
When exposed to extreme heat, the body’s temperature rises rapidly. If the body’s natural sweating mechanism fails and the body is unable to cool down, heatstroke can occur. Without prompt medical attention, it may lead to permanent disability or even death.
Progression of Heatstroke: Symptoms and Causes
According to Chen, heatstroke progresses through three stages, ranging from mild to severe.Heat Cramps
- Symptoms: Involuntary muscle contractions that cause pain, lasting from one to three minutes. Common areas include the thighs, calves, arms, and abdomen, creating a sensation of muscle tightness or spasms.
- Cause: Prolonged physical activity in a hot and humid environment without adequate hydration leads to excessive sweating, which results in electrolyte loss and imbalance, triggering muscle cramps.
Heat Syncope (Fainting)
- Symptoms: Dizziness, nausea, and temporary loss of consciousness.
- Cause: Prolonged standing in a hot environment. To regulate body temperature, blood vessels near the skin expand to release heat, causing blood redistribution. This can result in a significant amount of blood pooling in the limbs, reducing blood flow to the brain and causing fainting.
Heat Exhaustion
- Symptoms: Profuse sweating, fatigue, overall weakness, and shortness of breath.
- Cause: Excessive sweating without sufficient replenishment of fluids or electrolytes can lead to circulatory failure if left untreated.
