An Cosantóir

tac aide- hyperthermia | 31 high physical activity, hot weather, excessive perspiration and dehydra- tion, and their core temperature rises over 400 C, this is very dangerous. hyperthermia known also as heat exhaustion or heat Stroke is a problem that has plagued military recruits in basic training, physically fit well conditioned military person- nel and among well trained seasoned athletes for a very long time. hyperthermia like hypothermia can also be a serious problem for the soldier whether on operations or ex- ercises at home or overseas missions, examples would be the Middle east and Africa where our troops are and have served. hyperthermia can be just as treacherous and can also prove fatal if the soldier suffering its effects is HYPERTHERMIA h yperthermia is defined when the body's core temperature of 370 C is increased due to not treated quickly and properly. In recent years overseas missions have seen the Defence Forces deployed around the world to such extreme places as Somalia, eritrea, Liberia, Chad and now Lebanon again, where soldiers perform their daily duties in very high and humid temperatures and from time to time while wearing heavy kit and patrolling on foot. The soldier should carry sufficient amounts of water, sun protec- tion cream, protective sun glasses and most importantly a soft wide brimmed hat to cover the head and back of the neck. These are just a few small steps a soldier can take to look after himself in hot weather, howev- er if you or a buddy should suffer the effects of hyperthermia, the follow- ing is a short guide on what to look out for and what to do while await- ing proper medical assistance. SIGNS & SYMPTOMS OF HYPERTHERMIA: • The person is suffering dizziness, headaches or feeling faint: Fainting can occur if a person suffering the effects stands up suddenly after a short rest. • The Person is suffering from shivers and chills: Hyperthermia is often considered a form of sunstroke but it can make the person feel cold and shiver. This can sometimes confuse the person suffering the ef- fects as well as others around him or her. • The person is or is not sweating: Sweating aids in the release of heat from the body and maintains the body's temperature. Hyperthermia stops sweating and so excessive heat does not leave the body. • The person suffering from vomiting or vomiting sensations: Lack of water in the body can cause these reactions indicating dehydration. If you notice any of these symptoms in yourself or others: SEEK IMMEDIATE QUALIFIED MEDICAL ASSISTANCE While awaiting medical assistance to arrive you and your buddies can help by: • Moving the person to a cool shaded area • Loosening and removing helmet, PLCE, clothing & boots • Elevating the persons feet • Using cool damp cloths to aid in the reduction of body temperature • Giving cool liquids to drink (water or fruit juices only) • Talking to and reassuring the person suffering www.military.ie THE DEFENCE FORCES MAGAZINE

• Cover