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Heat stroke is one of the most serious and dangerous heat illnesses, often preceded by heat exhaustion. Recognizing the signs and symptoms early is crucial. Heat stroke typically occurs during summer or sunny vacations with prolonged exposure to heat and is often a result of dehydration. Here are 7 natural remedies for heat stroke and dehydration.
What is Heat Stroke?
Heat stroke is a severe form of heat illness caused by dehydration or overheating, usually due to extended sun exposure. During heat stroke, the body stops sweating, making it unable to cool down. While often confused with heat exhaustion, true heat stroke is much more dangerous and requires immediate medical attention.
What Causes Heat Stroke?
Our bodies naturally generate heat and usually cool down by sweating. However, extreme heat, humidity, or prolonged sun exposure can overwhelm this system. Dehydration hampers sweating, leading to dangerously high internal temperatures and potentially to heat stroke.
Non-exertional heat stroke results from prolonged exposure to hot, humid environments and is more common in older adults and those with chronic illnesses.
Exertional heat stroke is triggered by intense physical activity in hot weather and can affect anyone, especially those unaccustomed to high temperatures.
Risk factors include wearing excess clothing, alcohol consumption, insufficient fluid intake, and certain medications such as antibiotics, antidepressants, laxatives, acne medications, and diet pills.
9 Signs of Heat Stroke
- Very high body temperature
- Flushed skin
- Hot, dry skin with no sweating, or profuse sweating
- Confusion and slurred speech
- Altered mental state or behavior
- Nausea and vomiting
- Rapid breathing
- Racing or slow heart rate
- Throbbing headache
When to See a Doctor
Heat stroke requires immediate medical attention to prevent permanent damage to the brain, heart, or other vital organs. Contact a doctor if symptoms worsen or don’t improve within an hour. Call emergency services if someone is confused, unconscious, or unable to drink. A body temperature of 104°F or higher also signals a medical emergency.
7 Natural Remedies for Heat Stroke
1. Drink Lots of Water
Hydration is key. Avoid caffeinated or alcoholic drinks. Coconut water is especially beneficial due to its natural electrolyte balance.
2. Cool Yourself Down
Take a cool shower, soak in a cool bath, or apply wet towels to your skin. Get indoors or into the shade and lie down with your legs elevated above your heart.
3. Apply Aloe Vera Gel
Aloe vera has cooling properties and is rich in vitamins and minerals. Apply the gel to your skin. Use either fresh aloe or pure aloe vera gel.
4. Drink Buttermilk
Buttermilk replenishes lost vitamins, minerals, and probiotics. Drink it cold, optionally with yogurt or honey for added taste.
5. Onion Juice
Apply onion juice behind the ears and on the chest to reduce body heat. You can also drink a teaspoon mixed with honey twice daily for a few days.
6. Aam Panna (Raw Mango Drink)
This traditional Indian beverage made from raw mangoes and cooling spices helps restore energy and electrolytes. Prepare in bulk using this aam panna recipe.
7. Mint and Coriander Juice
These herbs have natural cooling effects. Extract the juice, add sugar, and consume to reduce body heat. Coriander juice also helps relieve menopausal hot flashes when applied to the skin.
Heat stroke is serious. Try these natural remedies if you’re experiencing heat exhaustion, but don’t hesitate to seek medical attention if symptoms persist.
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