What to do in case of heat stroke?

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With good weather, people take to the streets. Maybe too much. With overexposure to the sun, these days when thermometers touch (if not exceed) 40 degrees, heat strokes become a tonic during the summer.

In Spain, about 1,300 people die annually as a result of high temperatures, according to a study by the Carlos III Health Institute. And with mercury trending in recent years, this number could rise considerably.

That is why during this time of year special protection is given to the elderly and children, the groups most vulnerable to suffering from disorders related to high temperatures. There are several symptoms to perceive when a heat stroke is occurring.

The most common are intense headaches, hyperventilation, vomiting, skin changes, and sometimes loss of consciousness.

In the event of witnessing a heat stroke, the health authorities remind each summer of a series of instructions to follow and apply to the affected person.

The first thing to do is contact the emergency services so that they can come as soon as possible. Another recommendation is to take the victim to a cool place, such as in the shade or next to a fountain, and give them water in small sips while placing them in a position that promotes breathing, for example, the safety side posture.

It is also advisable to try to lower body temperature using a fan and wet towels on the head, neck, or forehead. But in no case should the subject be immersed under water.

The Ministry of Health has also published a series of tips to avoid heatstroke as much as possible. The main one is to hydrate frequently and avoid going outside during the central hours of the day.