Kuumalämpö

Kuumalämpö, also known as heatstroke in English, is a severe and potentially life-threatening medical condition caused by the body's inability to regulate its temperature. It occurs when the body's core temperature rises dangerously high, typically above 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit). This can happen due to prolonged exposure to high temperatures, especially when combined with high humidity, strenuous physical activity, or inadequate fluid intake.

Symptoms of kuumalämpö can develop rapidly and include a high body temperature, hot and dry skin (though in some cases sweating may still occur), a rapid and strong pulse, throbbing headache, dizziness, nausea, confusion, and loss of consciousness. Kuumalämpö is a medical emergency, and immediate action is crucial.

Treatment involves rapidly cooling the body. This can be achieved by moving the person to a cooler environment, removing excess clothing, applying cool water or ice packs to the skin, and fanning the person to promote evaporation. Medical attention should be sought immediately.

Factors that increase the risk of kuumalämpö include age (very young children and the elderly are more susceptible), certain medical conditions such as heart disease and obesity, and the use of certain medications that can affect the body's ability to regulate temperature or sweat. Prevention is key and involves staying hydrated, avoiding strenuous activity during the hottest parts of the day, wearing light-colored and loose-fitting clothing, and seeking shade when possible.