Beware of Summer Storm Illnesses: How to Distinguish Between Sun Flu vs Heatstroke and Care Tips

Prepare for summer storms by checking how to tell sun flu apart from heatstroke, along with ways to adapt quickly to sudden weather changes to maintain good health throughout the summer.

Summer storms cause sudden weather shifts that the body may not adjust to in time, increasing the risk of serious illness. Understand clearly how "sun flu" differs from "heatstroke" and learn how to protect yourself from diseases brought by rain and sun.

Summer storms and sudden weather changes raise concerns about "sun flu" and "heatstroke."

During summer storms in Thailand, the weather often changes drastically—from intense heat with high temperatures to heavy rain and strong winds in a short time. Such rapid temperature shifts directly affect the body's immune system, causing many people to begin feeling ill.

Clear distinctions: How do the symptoms of sun flu and heatstroke differ?

Although both conditions are caused by heat, their symptoms and treatments differ significantly, as follows.

1. Sun Flu (Summer Flu)

Caused by the body's inability to quickly adapt to fluctuating weather between intense heat and humid rain.

• Symptoms: low-grade fever, nasal congestion, sore throat, headache, and fatigue.
• Note: Often accompanied by respiratory symptoms similar to a common cold.

2. Heatstroke

Occurs when the body overheats and cannot cool down fast enough; this is a medical emergency that can be life-threatening.

• Symptoms: very high body temperature (above 40°C), flushed face, absence of sweating despite intense heat, confusion, staggering, or loss of consciousness.
• Note: If someone shows these signs, they must be taken to the hospital immediately.

Diseases brought by rain in the summer to watch out for

Besides illnesses caused by temperature changes, summer storms also bring other diseases. According to the Epidemiology Division, these groups of diseases should be monitored.

• Gastrointestinal diseases: food poisoning and diarrhea, as bacteria thrive in hot, humid conditions.
• Vector-borne diseases: such as dengue fever, since intermittent rain causes standing water in containers, serving as breeding grounds for Aedes mosquitoes.

5 ways to adapt and stay healthy during summer storms

• Drink plenty of clean water: helps regulate body temperature and prevents dehydration.
• Avoid sudden temperature changes: do not enter air-conditioned rooms immediately after being in strong sun; rest in the shade to cool down first.
• Carry rain and sun protection gear: umbrellas or hats are essential items to keep on hand.
• Eat freshly cooked food: prevents gastrointestinal diseases that commonly spread during this period.
• Monitor weather forecasts: follow updates from the Meteorological Department to plan travel and prepare in advance.

Taking care of your health during summer storms is not difficult; you just need to "understand" the symptoms of illness and "adapt" to changing weather. Maintaining a strong body, getting enough rest, and drinking clean water are the best defenses to safely get through this volatile season.