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What do you understand by heat stroke

Heatstroke is a condition that is most common during the dry season which corresponds with summer months. In such hot periods, if a person is doing manual work on the farm under the harsh African sun. Such prolonged exposure to the high temperatures can trigger a heatstroke.
Our farms are usually far from home. Good preparation involves carrying water along. But if you fail to carry your water, it increases the risk of a heatstroke due to dehydration and exhaustion. Most farms do not have built farmsteads or shade. With no place to hide from the sun, the risk of suffering from a heatstroke goes up.

_{^{Photo Credit to Pixabay.com 2}}

Symptoms of this condition.

Fainting on the farm is a common occurrence, and you better not faint because you will be labelled as weak, with plenty of teasing. Looking beyond the bravado, these are possible signs and symptoms that someone is about to go down.

An altered mental state or behaviour characterized by confusion, with a speech that is slurry and footsteps with a touch of staggering, similar to when Uncle Johnny is tipsy.

It may be accompanied by running sweat due to the strenuous nature of the work or a dry hot skin due to the hot sunny weather, with a body temperature around 40°C or 104 in degrees Fahrenheit.
Breathing may become rapid but shallow, with the heartbeats drumming fast and loud like in palpitation..

It is essential to notice these signs and symptoms early so as to provide prompt assistance to the sufferer.

The First aid that should be given to the patient

Immediate action is necessary because the person can quickly sustain damage to the brain, heart, kidneys and muscles.
Move the person to a cool place, under a big tree or any structure that has a good shade. At the shade, you can then remove some of the excess clothing to help quickly lower the temperature.
Sprinkle cold water. But if you have much water, to drench the person with, that would be a lot faster. You may use an ice block, or a wet towel on the forehead and neck region, armpits, ear and groin.

Such immediate action will be needed before the arrival of medical experts or moving the person to a nearby hospital, clinic or health centre.

_{^{Photo Credit to Pixabay.com 3}}

Prevention

Instead of acting strong to impress, it is best to take precautionary measures to avoid suffering from a heatstroke.
When the weather is hot, avoid putting on too many clothes or clothes that would make it hotter. Avoid cloth that is too tightly fitted. In hot weather, it is advisable to dress with hemp linen, silk or cotton because they are cooler.
Carry along and drink plenty of water as you work. Don't wait to drink only when you feel thirsty.

Invitation to participate

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Media Credit

Composer	@manuelhooks
Graphics	Pixabay.com 1 2 3
Contest link	Organised by @suboohi