Every year, many people in Thailand, young and old, fall victim to heatstroke. On average, as many as 32 people die each year.
The risk is particularly high during the peak summer months, when temperatures often soar above 40 degrees Celsius.
From March 1 to April 17 last year, 21 people succumbed to heatstroke. Of them, 13 died in public areas and two in vehicles.
Common symptoms are fatigue, loss of appetite, nausea, anxiety, headache, low-blood pressure, collapse and anhidrosis. Without timely help, heatstroke can prove fatal.
Although she was rushed to hospital, she sadly passed away.
An investigation revealed that the woman had travelled from Chaiyaphum province and waited in a queue for a long time until she felt sick and collapsed.
On the same day, a 77-year-old cyclist collapsed during his normal cycling routine in Nakhon Phanom province. Police said although he too was rushed to a nearby hospital, he unfortunately died.
There were no suspicious circumstances and heatstroke is the likely cause of death.
The Disease Control Department has warned people to avoid going outdoors when the weather is very hot. People who need to carry out activities under the sun are advised to wear a hat or use an umbrella and also drink lots of water.
It is predicted that temperatures will soar as high as 43 degrees Celsius over the next seven |weeks.
The ministry’s permanent secretary recommended that people should drink two litres of water a day during summer to lower the risk of heatstroke.
Heatstroke poses a particular risk to children under five years of age, the elderly, people with chronic diseases, obese people, people who lack adequate rest and heavy drinkers.
(Source:The Nation, Thailand)