5 Warning Signs of Heat Stroke Leading to Stroke: Which Risk Groups Should Be Especially Careful?

Exploring the connection between "heat stroke" and "stroke" (cerebrovascular disease), when extreme heat causes blood thickening and heart strain, raising the risk of paralysis. It also offers guidance on self-care and vulnerable groups during the hot season.

The extreme heat in Thailand is not just irritating; it can hide a silent, life-threatening danger called "heat stroke" (Heat Stroke). Many may not realize that temperatures soaring above 40 degrees Celsius are a key trigger that can lead to "stroke" (Stroke), a cerebrovascular disease that can cause sudden paralysis.

How do heat stroke and stroke differ?

Though their names are similar, they have different mechanisms. "Heat stroke" occurs when the body fails to dissipate heat, causing the temperature to exceed 40 degrees Celsius, leading to organ malfunction. "Stroke" happens when the brain suffers from blood deprivation due to narrowed, blocked, or ruptured blood vessels. Although they are not the same disease, extreme heat is a major factor that can trigger vessel narrowing, blockage, or rupture, especially in those already at risk.

Check 5 warning signs of "heat stroke"

If you or someone close is outdoors or in extreme heat, watch for these abnormal symptoms:

1. A high fever exceeding 40.5 degrees Celsius.
2. Headache, dizziness, fatigue, weakness, and possibly loss of consciousness.
3. Neurological abnormalities such as seizures, delirium, unsteady walking, slow responses, and confused speech.
4. Lack of sweating due to malfunctioning sweat glands, causing the skin to turn bright red.
5. Unusually dark urine caused by muscle breakdown, which may lead to kidney failure.

4 dangerous mechanisms: Why does heat cause brain blood deprivation?

Extreme heat severely affects the blood and heart system as follows:

• Dehydration and blood thickening: Excessive sweating thickens the blood, increasing the risk of blood clots.
• Heart overwork: The body speeds up heartbeats to dissipate heat, which may cause arrhythmia and dislodged clots blocking brain vessels.
• Low blood pressure: Blood vessels dilate to release heat, reducing blood flow to the brain.
• Systemic inflammation: Heat stroke triggers abnormal blood clotting, increasing clot risk.

Who are the "high-risk groups" that need special caution?

Those who should be closely monitored in extreme heat include the elderly, people with high blood pressure, diabetes, heart disease, outdoor workers, and those with a history of stroke.

How to protect yourself and cope with extreme heat

• Sip water frequently: Drink plain water throughout the day, even if not thirsty, to prevent dehydration.
• Avoid direct sunlight: Stay in the shade from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. If going outside, wear a hat, use an umbrella, and never leave children, pets, or the elderly in parked cars under the sun.
• Wear light clothing: Choose light-colored, breathable, and loose-fitting fabrics.
• Reduce heat buildup: Take cool showers or use damp cloths on pulse points such as the neck, armpits, and groin.
• Watch for warning signs: If experiencing dizziness, high fever, drowsiness, nausea, or seizures, seek immediate hospital care.
• Manage your environment: Close curtains or blinds to block heat from entering the home and minimize oven or stove use.

Preventing heat stroke is not just about cooling down but reducing the risk of sudden "cerebrovascular disease." If you or someone close is in a risk group, paying attention to even minor warning signs can save lives and prevent disability.

Information provided by Dr. Pimolpan Wisesarakul, a specialist in neurology and internal medicine at World Medical Center (WMC).