Sunstroke and heat stroke are often used as synonyms. In reality, these pathological conditions are not necessarily linked to exposure to the sun, but derive from the high external temperature (starting from 30-35 ° C), from the reduced ventilation and from the high rate of humidity (greater than 60-70 %), elements that do not allow the body an adequate dispersion of body heat, through sweating.
Sunstroke (or sunstroke ) is the consequence of direct and excessively prolonged exposure to the sun's rays, particularly on the surface of the head. This is a serious occurrence, as the effect of the sun's rays on the cerebral vessels is added to the action of heat on the whole organism, which presents itself with headache, dizziness, and exhaustion, followed by manifestations such as fever, red skin, nausea, convulsions and loss of consciousness.
Heat stroke, on the other hand, is due to an increase in body temperature due to the hot and saturated humidity . The body absorbs more heat than it manages to yield on the outside with perspiration and this leads to an increase in internal temperature. Therefore, weakness, lowering of blood pressure, nausea and vomiting, cramps, dizziness, intense thirst, loss of lucidity and disorientation occur. In severe cases, convulsions and coma can occur.
In both cases, when the first signs of discomfort arise, it is advisable to take shelter in a cool, sheltered and well ventilated area to lower the body temperature. If the subject is pale, it is best to place him in the supine position, keeping the legs raised 30-45 ° with respect to the head line to favor the return circulation from the peripheral areas of the body towards the heart. When the face is red and hot, instead, it is sufficient to remain in a semi-sitting position in the shade. It is useful to drink water at room temperature and cool the body by dabbing the wrists, sides of the neck, groin, armpits and temples with damp cloths. However, it is important that cold water is not used as it would cause a vasoconstriction, ie a narrowing of the blood vessels and a consequent difficulty in dispersing heat. If the subject is still sick after 15-20 minutes, call a doctor or go to the emergency room.
