Heat Stroke Can Trigger Brain Stroke: Is It True? Let’s Find The Answer!

The whole of India is in the grip of intense heat these days. Blame it on global warming! The heat is such that many parts of North India have reached 50 degrees Celsius. This excessive heat is both unbearable and harmful to all living beings. Along with issues like heat stroke, severe sunburns, fainting, dizziness, and constant dehydration, this exposure to extensive heat also comes with severe persecutions like brain stroke.

With recently recorded cases of brain stroke in summer, it is important to understand the risk associated with heat stroke and its management. 

Read ahead to know if a heat stroke can cause a severe case of brain stroke.

Table Of Contents

1. Can Heat Cause A Brain Stroke?

2. Is Heat Bad For Your Brain?

3. Dietitian’s Recommendation

4. The Final Say

5. FAQs

6. References

Can Heat Cause A Brain Stroke?

Yes, heat can cause a brain stroke. When blood flow to a particular portion of the brain is restricted or stopped, brain tissues are deprived of oxygen, which can lead to brain cell death and loss of function in the afflicted area, resulting in a brain stroke.

A heat wave is a prolonged period of scorching weather that can seriously affect the body's ability to regulate temperature and retain moisture. Heat waves can increase the risk of stroke by causing dehydration, which thickens the blood and promotes clot formation, and hyperthermia, which can damage brain cells and raise blood pressure. Heat waves may increase the risk of cerebral infarction, primarily because they affect the body's ability to regulate temperature and maintain adequate hydration.

Also Read- Heat Wave Stroke In Summers: Effects, Treatment Methods And Prevention Strategies

Is Heat Bad For Your Brain?

Yes, excessive heat is bad for your brain. High temperatures can disrupt the balance of neurotransmitters in the brain. Imbalances in neurotransmitters can affect mood, cognition, and behaviour, leading to confusion, irritability, and difficulty concentrating.

The body needs more water for energy during the summer season. Water is also released from the body through sweat in the summer. Drinking less water in such a situation can cause dehydration. As a result of dehydration, the blood flowing through the body thickens. In some cases, blood clots also form in the body, which increases the risk of stroke. Exposure to high temperatures can also stress the body and cause a stroke. 

People with high blood pressure, diabetes, asthma and heart disease are at higher risk of stroke in the summer. Even stress can increase blood pressure and put pressure on your heart, which can cause a heat stroke. Health experts have advised that people already suffering from serious illnesses should take special precautions to avoid illness during the summer.

Also Read- How To Reduce Body Heat Immediately? Discover Tips And Foods!

Dietitian’s Recommendation

To avoid heatstroke, you must avoid prolonged exposure to the sun or heat, which causes the body to overheat. If you feel that your body is starting to overheat, try gradually coming to a normal temperature. Do not directly expose your heated body to a cold shower or AC. Sit under the fan and drink normal water. Gradually, you can turn on the air conditioner and move into the shower. Wear loose, light clothing to help keep your body cool. Avoid direct sunlight during the hottest hours of the day.

                                                                                 Dt. Lavina Chauhan

The Final Say

In conclusion, the connection between heat stroke and brain stroke emphasises how critical it is to properly treat heat-related disorders, particularly in the summer or other hot climates. Heat stroke poses serious health dangers, even though at first it could just appear like another irritating effect of the hot weather. It can even cause a brain stroke. It is a harsh reminder to stay hydrated, find air conditioning or shade when needed, and recognise the warning indications of heat exhaustion or heat stroke. We may work to avert heat-related issues by being watchful and taking proactive steps to stay hydrated and cool. 

FAQs

1. Does heatstroke cause brain damage?

Yes, heatstroke or exposure to excessive temperature for a long time without precautions can cause brain damage. 

2. Can heat affect memory?

Yes, high temperatures are not suitable for our brains, but heat illness is even worse. Heat stroke and heat exhaustion can have various health consequences. 

3. Can drinking water prevent heat stroke?

Yes, staying hydrated and drinking plenty of cool fluids can help you avoid the two main types of heat-related illnesses: heat exhaustion and heat stroke.

References

• https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/search/research-news/19250/
• https://doctor.ndtv.com/living-healthy/can-heatwaves-cause-brain-stroke-5773144

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