First aid for circulatory problems and heat stroke

The most important things in brief

• Of course, when the temperatures are high, you should take it easy and not put too much strain on your circulation.
• Especially on summer vacation we tend to get the most out of the day, for example when we are out in the mountains or want to go on a bike tour.
• More is usually less - after all, a day's holiday should bring relaxation.
• If you or your companion suffer a circulatory collapse or heat stroke, first aid is essential.

In the event of a heat stroke, the most important measure, which you should tackle as quickly as possible, is to call the emergency services. Once that's done, it's your turn, now first aid is needed. You can also do this yourself if you are affected and the symptoms are not particularly bad. If you have a circulatory problem or sunstroke, you can lend a hand yourself without having to call the emergency services.

Why does the body sometimes go on strike when it's hot?

The high temperatures mean that our body also heats up. So our organism looks for ways and means to balance this heating so that it does not become overheated. That's why we sweat. In addition, the blood vessels dilate. If we are exposed to the heat for too long or overdo it with activities, then these protective mechanisms will eventually reach their limits, and the tolerable level of stress is different for each person.

But excessive sweating already leads to circulatory problems because firstly we lose too much liquid and secondly also salts with this liquid. Overall, the blood pressure drops, and this often quickly leads to problems with the circulatory system; corresponding symptoms can be headaches, malaise and dizziness. If this is the case, then the affected person must urgently avoid direct sunlight. Lying on your back with your legs raised and drinking liquids such as water or isotonic drinks is now ideal.

Bring something for a headache

The drinks must not be cold under any circumstances, this will shock the organism and it will try to compensate for the large temperature difference between the body and the liquid. This, in turn, can lead to even more sweat production, and this is exactly what should be avoided. At the same time, there is no harm in doing something about a headache. It's always a good idea to have some with you on hot summer days.

In the case of sunstroke, the symptoms are usually similar to those of a circulatory collapse: feelings of dizziness and headaches, often also nausea or a racing pulse. First aid is the same as for circulatory problems: a calm supine position, elevated legs and drinking a lot.

First aid for heatstroke

A person who suffers from heat stroke often initially shows the signs of sunstroke. However, if it doesn't stop there and symptoms such as chills, fever, a very red head, a stiff neck or a clouded consciousness are added, the highest alert level is announced. After you have called the emergency services, you can help the person concerned until the paramedics arrive on site.

You do this by removing her clothes as much as possible. If this is not possible, at least open buttons and zippers to prevent further overheating. You can also regulate the body temperature with cool water (it shouldn't be freezing cold), which you let flow over the person's chest. A damp, cool cloth or piece of clothing that is not needed can be placed under the neck of the person who is lying on their back for cooling.