fbpx
Site logo

--- Advertisement ---

Generic selectors
Exact matches only
Search in title
Search in content
Post Type Selectors

The Heat is On: Avoiding Heatstroke During the Thai Summer Months

Boy in the summer heat

The hottest time of the year is definitely here, the sky-high temperatures that are common in Thailand between the months of April through May make it tough getting the kids to and from school, (who really wants to do sports in boiling weather) and generally makes us all want to run for cover and find anywhere air conditioned. The scorching heat makes kids irritable and sometimes this isn’t just because they are hot and bothered, this is the time when you need to watch out for the signs of heat stroke.

Here are some of the common warning signs of heat stroke, which is a condition that can have long-term consequences, as well as steps you can take to avoid becoming affected so you can focus on enjoying your life or holiday in Thailand.

What is Heat Stroke?

Simply put, a heatstroke is a condition where the body fails to maintain a safe constant body temperature as a result of high body temperature and a lack of mechanisms for reducing the excessive heat either through evaporation or relief from the source of heat. In some people, especially the elderly or chronically ill, heatstroke is a possibility even when not involved in much physical exertion. On the other hand, even people who are more active and relatively healthy can fall victim to heatstroke if not careful with proper hydration and relief from the source of heat.

Recognising the Symptoms of Heatstroke

One of the first tell-tale signs of someone suffering from heatstroke is skin that is obviously red/visibly irritated but not sweating . Sweat is one of the body’s natural reactions to excessive heat, and is a healthy way for the body to evaporate some of the heat. If someone is not sweating during times of extreme heat, it should be cause for concern.

Additionally, look for:

  • A high body temperature when measured (above 39 degrees Celsius)
  • Confusion or dizziness
  • Nausea
  • Headache
  • A rapid pulse

Treating Heatstroke

Once you confirm that either you or someone near you is suffering from heatstroke, acting quickly to combat it can help avoid any long term damage.

First and foremost, call for medical assistance as soon as possible. While you wait for assistance, here are some steps you can take:

  • Hydrate! Your body needs water most of the time, but during heatstroke, it needs it more than ever. Even under normal circumstances, you need at least 1.5 liters of water each day.
    • Note: in extreme cases of heatstroke, drinking any fluid can be a choking hazard, so if the heatstroke victim is someone other than yourself, first determine how conscious they are before offering them any fluids.
  • Find some shade or air conditioning, and let your body cool off.
  • If possible, submerge the body in cold water or a cool shower to try and bring the temperature down.
  • Remove any tight/constricting clothing to allow for more airflow.

In most cases, just common sense is all you need to avoid the dangers of heatstroke. If you’re planning to be outdoors during the extreme heat, make sure to limit your consumption of dehydrating agents such as salt, alcohol, and heavy meals that might heat up your body. Additionally, avoid being outside for long stretches of time, instead giving your body a break under some shade or air conditioning. Wear clothing that is light colored and a comfortable, loose fit.

Please contact the Emergency Center at Bumrungrad International Hospital for fast and expert intervention if you or someone near you is suffering from heatstroke.

Editor’s Note: This article has been reprinted here with permission of Bumrungrad International Hospital.

Pssst... like what you're reading?

Join our community and never miss an event, post or update!

Just enter your email address below:

Generic selectors
Exact matches only
Search in title
Search in content
Post Type Selectors

Follow Us!

Upcoming Events

Wellington College International Bangkok – Football Training

Wellington College International Bangkok 18 Krungthep Kreetha Road Saphan Sung District, Bangkok, Thailand

Join us here at Wellington for the finest football training in town! Our Wellington Extra providers, Galaxy, have lots of extra opportunities on their programmes this year. If your child […]

฿12000 – ฿35200

BimBi Italiani – Imparando l’Italiano

Salesian Sisters Foundation Saladaeng Road, Silom, Bangrak, Bangkok, Bangkok, Bangkok, Thailand +1 more

ANNOUNCEMENT : ENROLLMENT OPEN FOR "IMPARANDO L'ITALIANO" IN BANGKOK,THAILAND For everyone in , BimBi Italiani has reopened registration for the weekly group language courses for children in Imparando l'Italiano from September […]

฿610 – ฿8610

Asobiba Art Exhibition

XSPACE GALLERY 71 15 Pridi Banomyong 14 Alley, Phra Khanong Nuea, Watthana,, Bangkok, Thailand

“Asobiba” Group exhibition by Nagoya University of the Arts and the Department of Fine Arts at KMITL At Xspace Gallery, Bangkok. (Main Hall) SHOW PERIOD: September 7 – December 22, […]

Please Contact

ELC Family of International Schools Bangkok – After-School Activities

The City School - International School Bangkok 18 Sukhumvit 49/4 Alley, Khlong Tan Nuea, Watthana, Bangkok, Thailand

We’re excited to open our After-School Activities registration today for children at The City School. We have a wonderful array of activities, including the following new classes available this year: […]

Please Contact

Alliance Française de Bangkok – French Course

Alliance Française de Bangkok 179 Witthayu road, Khwaeng Lumphini, Khet Pathum Wan, Bangkok,, Bangkok, Thailand

Great news for parents in Bangkok! Open the door to a world of linguistic and cultural discoveries for your children aged 3 to 11! Our next French course session begins […]

Please Contact
Get The Latest Updates

Subscribe To Our Weekly Newsletter

Get the latest kid and family-friendly activities and events in your inbox every Thursday! No spam, guaranteed.

More information

Recent Posts

Santa in Bangkok

Where to Meet Santa in Bangkok

Remember that wonderful age when you believed in Santa and the magic of Christmas? Getting to see Santa in the flesh will be one of the many highlights of Christmas

Christmas Events in Bangkok

Are you looking to get in the holiday spirit? Or perhaps you’re ready to tick of all of those things your kiddos have on their list to Santa? Have no

Group kids play on festive camp at night

Festive Winter Camp Guide

Holiday breaks are a time for students to step back and refresh from the first academic semester. While many families will use this an another opportunity to continue exploring Thailand,