There are some things to be aware of in the case of sun-stroke treatment. We explain what measures are useful and what you should know about sunstrokes.
What is a sunstroke?
A suntan (“insolation”) is a form of heat exhaustion and is caused by long and intense sunlight on the unprotected head and / or neck. The effect of heat irritates the meninges, which can lead to symptoms such as headaches and neck pain. Often, the symptoms only appear hours after staying in the sun.
Symptoms: Beware of these signs
Typical symptoms of a sunstroke are:
- a headache
- Neck pain / stiff neck
- Overheated and reddened head and neck
- Other temperature on the body rather inconspicuous
- Nausea and / or vomiting
- dizziness
- Inner unrest
- Awareness disorders until unconsciousness
Find out more about this in the article Sunstroke Signs .
First Aid: Measures for sun-stroke treatment
First and foremost, the person affected should be taken out of the sun and in the shade for sun-stroke treatment. Since the symptoms usually start later, this measure is usually unnecessary by itself. These sun-brushing tips are also useful if signs of the disease are detected:
- The person concerned should lie with his upper body and head in a dark and cool place.
- Cool compresses or cloths on the neck and head do well.
- Unless the patient suffers from vomiting or altered consciousness, it is important to add fluid – preferably mineral water.
- The affected person must be closely monitored: If no improvement occurs within 20 minutes, he will faint or worsen his condition, should an emergency doctor be called!
In serious cases, a sunstroke can cause a so-called cerebral edema – the brain swells and increases the pressure on the skull. Severe sun damagemust therefore be treated with medical treatment.
Two diseases: sunstroke or heat stroke?
A heat stroke is even more dangerous than a sunstroke or even a sunburn. Patients often suffer from elevated body temperature to fever over 40 degrees, which can lead to organ failure. Otherwise, the symptoms are similar to the sunstroke (more on this you will find in the article heat stroke symptoms ), however, they often arise while the person is still in the sun or the heat.
Incidentally, we reveal everything about sun-stroke in children here.