Overheating occurs when heat production in the body is higher than heat loss. This may happen when you are dancing for long periods of time, or if stimulant drugs such as ecstasy or speed are used.
Normal body temperature usually lies between 35.6°C and 37.8°C. Temperatures of 41°C can produce convulsions and 43°C can cause death. The body produces sweat and increases blood flow to the skin to lose heat. Overheating can lead to heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Heat exhaustion results from the body overheating and becoming dehydrated.
Symptoms include a high body temperature, confusion, possible collapse and fainting. Heat stroke can occur if the body is unable to lose heat and cool down. The symptoms of heat stroke include hot and dry skin and a high body temperature.
Speak to your friends or venue staff if you get into trouble. Ask your friends to stay with you until you feel better. If you don’t start to feel better go to the first aid area (if available) or go to a hospital.
Heat exhaustion:
- To treat heat exhaustion you should rest, drink water and try to cool down.
- Remove excess clothing to cool down.
- Avoid alcohol and caffeine as these will increase your rate of dehydration.
Heat stroke:
- Heat stoke can be fatal. If not treated immediately it can lead to convulsions and organ damage.
- You should seek urgent medical attention!
- To treat heat stroke the body needs to be cooled down. Possible measures include immersing the body in cold water, drinking cold fluids and removing excess clothing.
Dehydration:
- Drink water slowly and find a place to rest.
- Avoid alcohol and caffeine as these will increase your rate of dehydration.
- Avoid isotonic sports drinks if ecstasy has been used as these can increase the effect that the drug has on raising blood pressure.
Overhydration:
- Overhydration that leads to swelling of brain cells needs to be treated quickly. Swelling of brain cells can quickly lead to disorientation, convulsions, coma and death.
- Seek medical attention urgently to treat overhydration.
Keeping Hydrated
It is important for everyone to keep hydrated by drinking water or other non-alcoholic drinks, especially if drugs or alcohol are consumed. Water helps to avoid dehydration, regulate body temperature and remove wastes. Signs of dehydration include dry flushed skin, decreased urine output, thirst and a dry mouth. However, drinking too much water very quickly can cause overhydration, which can cause brain cells to swell. Signs of overhydration include nausea, vomiting and muscle cramps.
Other tips include:
- Be aware of your body temperature.
- Take regular breaks to cool down and drink water.
- Watch out for signs of overheating such as red skin and excessive sweating.
- Wear appropriate clothing.
- Take some money to buy water.
- Watch out for drink spiking.
- Get help if you feel you are in trouble.