Homeopathy for Sunstroke

As temperatures rise around the world in the Northern Hemisphere, everyone is bracing for a blazing hot summer. Many of us like to be outdoors enjoying the long daylight hours; however, extended exposure to the heat of the sun results in loss of fluids. This causes fatigue and raises the body temperature. These are often the first signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion or sunstroke. 

Young children and elderly people face the maximum risk, but heat exhaustion or sunstroke can affect persons of any age. Even animals are frequently affected by sunstroke so it is equally important to take care of their needs as well.

 
    

Symptoms of sunstroke:

• Fatigue
• Muscle cramps due to loss of electrolytes
• Nausea and/or vomiting
• Dizziness
• Confusion
• Headache
• Raised body temperature with no sweat
• Rapid heart beat
• Fainting

Management: 

Anyone who is affected by sunstroke or heat exhaustion should be taken to the nearest hospital for administration of intravenous electrolytes if required. If immediate removal to a hospital is not possible, first aid measures should be followed until medical help is available.

• Move the affected person into a shady area
• Remove any tight clothing
• Apply ice packs or wet towels
• Drinking cool fluids helps to lower the body temperature
• Drink preferably fluids that contain both sugar and salt (coconut water, homemade ORS solution, buttermilk, lemonade)

Complications of sunstroke: 

In extreme conditions, sunstroke can cause convulsions, hallucinations, brain damage, and death. Since babies, young children, and the elderly are more prone to be affected by heat exhaustion, it is important to take steps to prevent the onset of severe signs and symptoms.


Prevention: 

• Maintain electrolyte levels by drinking fluids that contain both sugar and salt.
• Avoid extended exposure to the sun.
• If you are outdoors on hikes or treks, be well-prepared with lots of water and electrolyte drinks.
• Drink fluids throughout the day even though you are not thirsty. By the time you feel the sensation of thirst, your body is already on the way to dehydration, so it is important to keep drinking fluids all through the day.
• Wear loose breathable clothing.
• Avoid caffeine and alcohol to prevent dehydration.

Homeopathic Remedies for sunstroke:

Remedies like Glonoine, Natrum carb, Gelsemium, Veratrum album, Camphora are important when considering the homeopathic management of sunstroke. Other remedies like Belladonna, Aconite, Lachesis, Carbo veg, Bryonia, etc, may also be indicated according to the symptoms present. The correct remedy and dosage must be determined by a homeopath. It is not recommended to try self-medication without consulting a homeopath. 

Having said that, be assured that homeopathy is the most gentle and also a rapid way to manage emergency conditions or in situations where immediate medical aid is not available. If you are going to go on picnics, hikes, or treks, it might be a good idea to consult your homeopath for a kit of remedies to carry with you in case you need to use them - not only for sunstroke, but also for injuries and insect or animal bites.

Enjoy the outdoors, and have a great summer!