As the summer rapidly approaches here in sunny Arizona, the region will begin to experience severe and unyielding heat. With temperatures well over 100 degrees–at times over 110 degrees–the human body will become vulnerable to heat stroke. This is a very serious condition that needs to be addressed immediately, as it is an emergency situation with the body overheating rapidly. While acupuncture can be used to help alleviate the symptoms of heat stroke, it is imperative that anyone suffering from this condition seeks medical attention as soon as possible. Given that the heat of summer is so close, we wanted to take the time to provide some information about heat stroke and how acupuncture can be used to help alleviate its symptoms.
What is heat stroke?
Heat stroke results from prolonged exposure to high temperatures — usually in combination with dehydration — which leads to failure of the body’s temperature-control system. The medical definition of heat stroke is a core body temperature greater than 105 degrees Fahrenheit, with complications involving the central nervous system that occur after exposure to high temperatures. [Link]
Many people have reported that there was a very rapid onset when they experienced heat stroke. This is cause for great vigilance–and the need to make sure you are well hydrated when the temperatures rise. It is also very important that there is access to shaded areas where you can escape the sun.
What are some symptoms of heat stroke?
People who have heat stoke will experience the following symptoms: throbbing headache; dizziness and light-headedness; lack of sweating despite the heat; red/hot/dry skin; muscle weakness or cramps; nausea and vomiting; rapid heartbeat which may be strong or weak; rapid, shallow breathing; behavioral changes such as confusion or disorientation; seizures and unconsciousness. [Link]
It is important to note that some of these symptoms can be rather mild at first, but then become severe in a short amount of time. If you–or someone you know–has been outside in the heat and is reporting any of these symptoms, please seek medical attention as soon as possible.
What are some risk factors for getting heat stroke?
There are a few specific risk factors that will cause some people to have a predisposition to getting heat stroke. Age is a major indicator as individuals who are very young or very old can be prime candidates to experience heat stroke. The ability of the body to deal with extreme heat can be easily overwhelmed, especially with people in these demographics because their bodies are more vulnerable.
Another risk factor for getting heat stroke is having a sudden exposure to extreme temperatures. If the body isn’t sufficiently prepared to deal with the heat–and then is faced with oppressive heat–it won’t be able to properly cope. This can be especially prevalent in people who spend a large portion of their time indoors, as well as tourists who are unaccustomed to very hot weather.
There are certain medications—both over-the-counter and prescription–which can also create a risk factor for heat stroke. Psychotropic medications (anti-depressants, anti-anxiety), diuretics, stimulants, beta blockers, vasoconstrictors, and illegal drugs can all affect the body’s ability to cope with extreme heat, thereby potentially leading to heat stroke.
How can acupuncture help resolve heat stroke?
We would like to state clearly that if you (or anyone you know) is experiencing heat stroke, you should seek medical attention as soon as possible. While acupuncture can provide help in alleviating some of the symptoms, it is vital that an individual suffering from heat stroke go immediately to urgent care or head to the nearest emergency room.
After a patient has received proper treatment from a medical professional, he or she can use acupuncture to help alleviate some of the residual symptoms. A licensed acupuncturist can use a combination of acupuncture points on the body to clear heat and resolve toxicity. There are also a number of Chinese herbal formulas that will complement acupuncture treatments by cooling and nourishing the body while supporting homeostasis.
Prevention is the best medicine; this is from an Eastern as well as Western medical perspective. So, if you or anyone you know is going to spend time outside in the extreme heat, please be sure to hydrate, wear a hat, look for shade and limit your time in the sun. If any of the symptoms listed above are being experienced, seek medical attention immediately.
