Treatment for heat stroke

Spain is facing a new heat wave. And with it comes so-called "heat strokes." Let's take a look at what they are and what treatments are available for heat stroke, such as the EMCools® cooling system.

Last summer, more than 60,000 deaths occurred in Europe due to heat exhaustion. Spain and Italy were the countries with the highest number of deaths.

But what is heat stroke ? It's a disorder caused by excess heat in the body, usually as a result of prolonged exposure to high temperatures or physical exertion in high temperatures. It puts health at risk and can be fatal if not treated properly.

Heat stroke requires emergency treatment , as if left untreated, it can rapidly damage the brain, heart, kidneys, and muscles. The damage worsens the longer treatment is delayed, increasing the risk of serious complications or death.

Symptoms of heat stroke

• High body temperature (usually above 40°C).
• Skin is warm and dry to the touch (no sweating); skin may redden as your body temperature rises.
• Severe headache.
• Dizziness and confusion.
• Nausea and vomiting.
• Rapid, pounding heartbeat.
• Loss of consciousness (in severe cases)

Therapeutic treatment

The mainstay of treatment in these cases is rapid cooling . Currently, there is an innovative, easy-to-use, and effective surface body cooling system for pre-hospital and hospital settings called EMCools Flex Pad . This heat stroke treatment system allows for temperature control in critical situations, preventing traumatic injury .

This is a non-invasive, skin-friendly system for temperature management in therapeutic hypothermia, normothermia, and cryotherapy . It is designed as a preventative measure for acute situations such as stroke, traumatic brain injury, hyperthermia, and heat stroke. EMCools Flex Pad  adapts to the body and covers any surface area desired to reduce the temperature required for each situation. It is also capable of maintaining the desired temperature during transport or diagnostic testing, without any power supply during use.

This system's patented technology provides highly efficient cooling (15 times better than ice and 58 times better than water) and allows for excellent heat dissipation. EMCools Flex Pad should only be used under medical supervision. In Spain, it is distributed by  IES Medical, a company with a long history of supplying innovative medical products and devices.

How to prevent heat stroke

Prevention is key to avoiding heat stroke on hot days. Here are some steps you can take:

• Proper hydration : Drinking enough water is essential to keep your body hydrated and allow for proper temperature regulation. Avoid caffeinated or alcoholic beverages, as these can further dehydrate you.
• Clothing: Wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothing that allows for breathability and prevents excessive heat. Protect your head with a wide-brimmed hat to avoid direct sun exposure.
• Schedule : Try to avoid outdoor activities during the hottest hours of the day.
• Rest and shade : If you are doing outdoor activities, take frequent breaks and seek shade to avoid prolonged sun exposure.
• Do not leave anyone in closed vehicles: Never leave children, the elderly, or pets inside a parked vehicle, even for short periods, as temperatures can rise quickly and cause heat exhaustion.