SUNSTROKE Meaning and
Definition
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Sunstroke is a medical condition that occurs as a result of excessive exposure to the sun's heat and rays. It is characterized by an elevated body temperature and dysfunction of the body's thermoregulatory system. The dangerous climatic condition affects the body's ability to cool down through sweating and thus leads to overheating, requiring immediate medical attention.
When an individual is exposed to high temperatures for an extended period, the body temperature rises, causing symptoms of sunstroke to manifest. These commonly include dizziness, headache, nausea, rapid breathing, rapid heartbeat, and a flushed, red complexion. Additionally, some individuals may experience confusion, disorientation, seizures, or even loss of consciousness. Severe cases of sunstroke can have life-threatening consequences.
The treatment for sunstroke aims to cool down the body rapidly, preventing further damage. It typically involves moving the affected person to a cool, shaded area, helping them lie down flat, and loosening restrictive clothing. Medical professionals might employ methods such as applying cold water or ice packs to the individual's body, providing intravenous fluids, and monitoring their vital signs closely.
Prevention is essential to avoid sunstroke. This includes seeking shade during the hottest parts of the day, wearing lightweight and breathable clothing, using sunscreen with a high sun protection factor (SPF), and staying well hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids. It is particularly vital for individuals in susceptible populations, such as the elderly, infants, or those with certain medical conditions, to take extra precautions against sunstroke.
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Insolation, siriasis; a form of heatstroke resulting from undue exposure to the sun's rays, probably caused by the action of the actinic rays combined with the high temperature. The symptoms are those of heatstroke, but there is often an absence of fever, with extreme prostration and collapse.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
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A disease, being a kind of apoplexy, caused by the action of the sun's rays in extremely hot weather on some part of the body, particularly on parts about the head, as the back of the neck.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for SUNSTROKE
Etymology of SUNSTROKE
The word "sunstroke" has its origin in the combination of two words: "sun" and "stroke".
The word "sun" dates back to Old English and is derived from the Proto-Germanic word "sunnon", which is believed to have developed from the Proto-Indo-European word "suh₂nús". This word referred to the celestial body that emits light and heat.
The word "stroke", in this context, comes from Middle English and has its roots in Old English and Old Norse. It is related to the word "strike" and originally meant a blow or hit. Over time, it developed the additional meaning of a sudden occurrence or a medical condition.
Therefore, when combined, "sunstroke" refers to a medical condition caused by excessive exposure to the sun, often resulting in a heat-related illness or a sudden attack.
Similar spelling words for SUNSTROKE
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