The current dry season in Indonesia has brought extremely hot weather, with daily temperatures often exceeding normal levels. This high-temperature phenomenon is exacerbated by intense ultraviolet exposure in various major cities, including Serang Regency and surrounding areas. Many people continue to carry out strenuous outdoor activities without realising the risk of heat accumulating in the body. Dry environmental conditions and insufficient fluid intake create a dangerous combination for your health. Hyperthermia can pose a serious threat to anyone exposed to high temperatures for an extended period.
What Is Hyperthermia?
Hyperthermia is a condition in which body temperature rises significantly above the normal level of around 37 degrees Celsius due to exposure to heat from the external environment. The body fails to release heat effectively, causing its internal temperature regulation system to become overwhelmed. This condition differs from fever, which occurs as a result of the immune system’s response to infection. Uncontrolled increases in body temperature can cause significant damage to brain tissue and other vital organs.
What Causes Hyperthermia?
Various environmental factors and activities can trigger dangerous increases in body temperature. The following are some of the main causes of hyperthermia that you should be aware of:
- Exposure to sunlight
- Strenuous physical activity
- Dehydration
- Wearing clothing that is too thick
- Environments without proper air circulation
You should take immediate action if your body begins showing symptoms or signs of an abnormal increase in temperature. Recognise the following symptoms of hyperthermia:
- High body temperature. The body feels extremely hot to the touch, and a thermometer shows a reading above 40 degrees Celsius.
- Changes in sweating. Your skin may feel very wet due to excessive sweating, or it may become very dry and appear reddish.
- Severe headache. A sensation of dizziness or a throbbing headache may occur, accompanied by nausea and vomiting.
- Muscle problems. You may experience cramps in the legs, arms, or abdomen due to an imbalance of electrolytes in the body.
- Extreme fatigue. An intense feeling of weakness may occur, accompanied by a very rapid heartbeat.
- Decreased consciousness. The patient may begin experiencing confusion, incoherent speech, and may suddenly faint.
Initial Management of Hyperthermia
Rapid treatment is essential for the safety of patients experiencing hyperthermia. You should immediately move the patient to a shaded area or an air-conditioned room. Loosen the patient’s clothing if it is too thick to improve air circulation. Apply cold compresses to the patient’s neck, armpits, and groin area. Provide the patient with water or an electrolyte drink slowly if they are still fully conscious.
According to Internal Medicine Specialist, dr Michael Y, Sp.PD, “The reduction of body temperature must be carried out gradually to prevent shock to the cardiovascular system. The first and most crucial step is to move the patient away from the heat source as quickly as possible and bring them to a cooler area.”
When Should You Consult a Doctor?
Severe hyperthermia is a life-threatening medical emergency. You must seek immediate medical assistance if symptoms do not improve after 30 minutes of initial treatment. Decreased consciousness, seizures, and a continuously rising body temperature require immediate medical attention at a hospital. Bethsaida Hospital Serang has an Emergency Department facility that is ready to handle hyperthermia cases quickly and appropriately.
“Delayed treatment of hyperthermia can trigger damage to vital organs such as the brain and nervous system function,” explained dr. Michael Y, Sp.PD.
You should immediately bring the patient to the hospital if signs of disorientation begin to appear to prevent the condition from worsening and other serious complications from developing.