In 1985, 16-year-old Douglas Casa, ran the championship 10, 000 meter track race at the Empire State Games. Suddenly, with just 200 meters to go, he collapsed on the final straightaway, with his body temperature at dangerous levels. He had suffered an exertional heat stroke（运动型中暑）or sunstroke.
From ancient soldiers on the battlefield to modern warriors on the gridiron（足球球场）, exertional heat stroke, has long been a serious concern. And unlike classical heat stroke, which affects people such as babies and the elderly during heat waves, exertional heat stroke is caused by intense exercise in the heat.
So how do you diagnose an exertional heat stroke? The main criterion is a core body temperature greater than 40℃ along with signs of central nervous system disfunction such as confused behavior, or loss of consciousness.
As far as treatment goes, the most important thing to remember is cool first, transport second. The human body can withstand a core temperature above 40℃ for about 30 minutes before cell damage sets in. After any athletic or protective gear has been removed from the victim, place them in an ice water tub while stirring the water and monitoring vitals continuously. As you wait, itˈs important to keep the victim calm while cooling as much surface area as possible until emergency personnel arrive. If medical staff are available on site, cooling should continue until a core temperature of 38. 9℃ is reached.
As Dr. J Levick wrote of exertional heat stroke in 1859, "It strikes down its victim with his full armor on. Youth, health and strength oppose no obstacle to its power. " But donˈt be frightened so much for it has been 100% survivable with proper care.
A. Fortunately he survived with immediate treatment. B. When possible seek out places with air-conditioners. C. So itˈs necessary to start cooling as quickly as possible. D. But emergency services should be called before you start. E. The sun can also take lives away if people are not careful. F. So far it has been one of the top three killers of athletes in training. G. It is important to keep the body temperature close to its normal temperature. |
