France Under Unprecedented Heatwave: Understanding and Preventing Sunstroke and Heatstroke

Paris, France - As an unprecedented heatwave sweeps across France, with temperatures projected to reach 38 to 40 degrees Celsius, authorities are urging the public to be vigilant against sunstroke and heatstroke. Météo-France reports that the entire territory, excluding the English Channel coast, will experience "suffocating heat" until Wednesday, with night temperatures remaining high, between 20 and 24 degrees Celsius. The human body naturally activates thermoregulation mechanisms, such as sweating, to counteract rising temperatures. However, prolonged exposure to heat or direct sunlight, especially on the head and neck, can overwhelm these defenses, leading to sunstroke. Symptoms of sunstroke include headaches, a sensation of heat in the face, dizziness, vertigo, malaise, a fever above 39.5°C, intense thirst, accelerated heart rate, muscle cramps, and fatigue. If detected and managed promptly, sunstroke is generally not severe. However, if sunstroke is not recognized or treated, it can escalate into heatstroke, a medical emergency that can be fatal. Heatstroke occurs when the body completely loses its ability to regulate temperature. More intense symptoms include a body temperature exceeding 40°C, absence of perspiration with hot, dry skin, nausea, vomiting, respiratory difficulties, mental confusion, or even loss of consciousness. Heatstroke can lead to serious complications such as neurological, cardiac, or renal damage, coma, and in the most severe cases, death. In case of sunstroke symptoms, it is crucial to immediately cease all physical activity, move to a cool and airy shaded area, humidify the skin, take a lukewarm or cool (but not cold) shower, apply a wet cloth to the forehead and neck, and drink water (not cold or iced). Individuals should avoid taking paracetamol. Other factors like certain medications, alcohol consumption, lack of sleep, obesity, and intense physical activity can increase the risk of sunstroke. If multiple severe symptoms are present, or in cases of fainting or convulsions, immediate medical attention is required. Call 15 (French emergency number) without delay. If there is any doubt about one's own condition or that of a loved one, emergency services should be contacted as quickly as possible for urgent care.