Stiff neck can indicate sunstroke

Sunstroke after work outdoors: Stiff neck can be a hint

08/04/2014

In midsummer temperatures, you can easily get a sunstroke. Especially in occupations where people work outside, the danger is great. Symptoms that may indicate a sunstroke include headaches and a stiff neck.

When working outdoors, higher sunstroke risk
In summery temperatures, people working outdoors can quickly get a sunstroke. In occupations such as farmers, construction workers or road builders, many have to be out in the cold even in very hot weather. If they are not careful, they run the risk of getting a sunstroke. According to a dpa report, the Vice President of the Association of German Plant and Factory Physicians (VDBW), Anette Wahl-Wachendorf, said: „First symptoms include headache, nausea, vomiting and neck stiffness.“ According to experts, a sun-stroke is also usually associated with complaints such as fever, dizziness, inner restlessness and tinnitus.

Do not continue working on symptoms
It is recommended that employees should then take quick breaks, go into the shade and have a drink. If they continue to work despite such symptoms, they may become unconscious. In addition, it would not be a good idea to cool down too quickly for symptoms of a sunstroke. „For example, some people take a cold shower“, so election-Wachendorf. In the worst case, this could lead to a cardiovascular collapse. It would be better to cool off slowly with cold, wet towels. Furthermore, colleagues should keep an eye on each other. Wahl-Wachendorf recommends: „If an employee suddenly turns red or very pale, they should talk to him and put him in the shade.“

Special danger for children and seniors
In conversation with the news agency „APA“ a few weeks ago, the emergency physician Dr. med. Gabriele Lerche, deputy chief physician of the Johanniter, also pointed to the special danger for children and seniors. These „have a deceptively low thirst and feel the lack of fluid too late“ and are more susceptible to heat stroke and sunstroke. The expert had also pointed out in the conversation that babies, toddlers and the elderly - as well as dogs - should not be left alone in the car. In the interior of a car can quickly prevail 60 to 70 degrees, so there is an increased risk of heat stroke. (Ad)