(by Nicola Simonetti) Constantly raging heat: beware of heat stroke, cause of body temperature increase (39 degrees) and dehydration, potentially deadly. It must be treated urgently as the brain and other vital organs go into severe, immediate crisis.
Elderly and young children, heart patients, people with respiratory diseases, motor or mental handicaps, chronic diseases are more exposed to heat stroke. At risk also those who recklessly expose themselves to the sun or who practice physical activity or stay in a closed and overheated environment.
The warning signs: hot, red and dry skin, thirst, violent headache reported "unbearable", nausea, dizziness, vomiting, unconsciousness, convulsions.
Call the 118 immediately and, pending its arrival, put the victim in the shade, undress him. Sprinkle your face with cold water and, if possible, place ice on your thighs and arms.
Pre-alarm: profuse sweating especially after drinking water, no urine emission for several hours, widespread cramps, asthenia. It could be sunstroke, the little sister of heatstroke. It will be necessary to drink immediately, introduce non-alcoholic liquids, rest in the shade or in a cool and ventilated environment, ventilate. Call the doctor.