Cardiologist Dr. Yulia Aksyonova points out that the body should not be cooled with ice or very cold water when exposed to heatstroke, as this may worsen the condition rather than improve it.
According to her, heatstroke is a form of heat stress, and in severe cases it can lead to nervous system disorders, making it a medical emergency that requires immediate intervention.
She explained that sunstroke often occurs as a result of direct exposure to sunlight for long periods, whether while sitting on the beach, walking, or working outdoors without wearing a hat, especially during peak hours.
She said: "The groups most vulnerable to heatstroke include children, the elderly, cardiovascular patients, and people who engage in physical activity in hot weather."
She added that the first symptoms usually appear gradually and include severe headache, weakness, dizziness, a feeling of intense heat, nausea, and a rapid heartbeat. The skin temperature also rises, and the body temperature may increase as well. If exposure to heat continues, the condition may worsen, leading to altered mental status, drowsiness, loss of balance, and potentially fainting or seizures.
She indicated that first aid begins by immediately moving the injured person to a cool or shaded place, placing them on their back with their head slightly elevated, loosening or removing tight clothing, ensuring good ventilation, and then gradually lowering their body temperature. Cold compresses can be applied to the head, neck, and areas with large blood vessels, while also moistening the skin with cool water. If the injured person is fully conscious, it is advisable to give them small amounts of cool water.
She added that if the patient feels very weak or dizzy, or shows signs of fainting, it is best to raise his legs 15 to 30 cm above the level of his head to improve blood flow to the brain, reduce the burden on the heart, and help prevent loss of consciousness.
The doctor stressed the need to avoid some common mistakes, saying: "One should not continue to stay in the sun hoping for an improvement in the condition, and one should avoid consuming alcohol or energy drinks because they increase dehydration. Also, it is not advisable to cool the body suddenly with ice water or place ice directly on the skin, because this may cause spasms in the blood vessels. If the patient loses consciousness, no fluids should be given to him."
She stressed that medical help should be sought immediately if the body temperature remains high, the patient becomes lethargic, loses consciousness, experiences convulsions, vomits, or shows signs of altered consciousness, as these conditions require hospital treatment.
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