Sometimes people get caught up in the naming conventions of different things and lose sight that whichever name is used, the matter deserves attention. For example, in the world of dentistry, some patients may wonder if a dental crown or a dental cap is the same thing. They are. Likewise, when it comes to suffering the impact of a long, hot, Texas summer, some people may wonder whether they need emergency care in Temple because they’re having a heat stroke or sunstroke.
Even Though They Are Called Different Names…
Heat stroke and sunstroke are considered the same condition by most everyone in the medical field. This means they both have their own set of symptoms, and each requires a similar treatment protocol. But what’s most important about the two is that in many situations each case may become so severe that at-home care is not adequate. In scenarios such as those, it’s suggested that individuals visit an ER in Temple for a precise diagnosis and treatment plan.
The Most Common Symptoms of Heat-Related Distress
Although every scenario will be different, most individuals who are experiencing heat-related distress will display the following conditions:
- Absence of sweating
- A high body temperature, usually above 105 degrees
- Difficulty breathing, faintness, and muscle cramps
- Confusion or hallucinations
Whatever the Name — It Can Be Life Threatening
Because the condition can be life-threatening, patients should be taken to the nearest “Temple ER near me” for immediate treatment. If you’d like to offer assistance while you’re waiting for transportation to arrive, consider providing the following:
- Cooling the person off with a fan made of newspaper or a magazine
- Wet their body with a sponge of cool water from a hose, or apply the water from the hose directly on them
- Apply ice packs to anatomical areas that contain large blood supplies such as the back, armpits, and neck
- Offer a drink of cool water or a non-carbonated, non-caffeinated beverage such as a sports drink
How to Avoid These Conditions?
A few pointers to use as benchmarks to avoid the perils of these conditions include making sure that you drink plenty of fluids while outdoors, always wear loose light-colored clothing, and try to only be outside in the early morning or after the sun has set.