A non-randomized clinical study on heat stroke

Rajkumar

CCT – Emergency Medicine, Kauvery Hospital, Trichy

Background

Heat stroke is a life threatening condition, characterized by increase in core body temperature >40c along with central nervous system manifestation.

 

Introduction

During the month of March and April 2024, temperature in Tamilnadu reached sky high.It went max up to 112°C. Heat stroke has high mortality, with rates ranging from 21 to 63 percent (. Epstein Y et al Nejm2019, Ebi KL et al Lancet 2021).

Mortality correlates with the degree of temperature elevation, time to initiation of cooling measures, and the number of organ systems affected leading to anuria, coma, and cardiovascular failure.

In our ER we have received around 12 patients with temperature of above 40°C within months of March to April 2024. Rectal thermometer and esophageal thermometer were used for measurement of core temperature.

Results and Discussion


Management

  • Mainstay of treatment lies in reducing the core temperature not less than 102°F in initial 2hr
  • Cold saline infusion, ice pads, wet sheets were used to control the temperature.
  • Neurological care and preventing from sepsis becomes the next.
  • Since it involves multiple systems of our body (Kidney, liver, gut, muscle) addressing the corresponding systems needs to be done.
  • After timely diagnosing and appropriate treatment the outcome was good
  • The awareness regarding heat related illness is still inadequate
  • Education regarding the preventive measures should be done.
  • It is easy to prevent than treating
  • Despite accumulated knowledge and experience, deaths during heat waves are still common and have been associated largely with social isolation in vulnerable populations, lack of air conditioning, and increases in heat during large gatherings for cultural or religious purposes.

Preventive measures

Weather forecast regarding heat waves

  • Use of social media
  • Avoidstrenuous physical work
  • Hydration
  • Clothing
Kauvery Hospital