Panama's emergency service explains how to help someone suffering from heatstroke

Panama's intense heat poses a serious health risk, with the emergency medical service SUME 911 detailing critical first aid for heatstroke.

Paramedics emphasize that immediate action can save lives. If someone shows signs of heat exhaustion or heatstroke, such as dizziness, headache, intense thirst, or weakness after sun exposure, the first step is to move them to a cool, shaded location. Loosening their clothing helps improve air circulation, and applying cool, damp cloths to the head can lower body temperature. Offering water is advised, but only if the person is conscious and can swallow without difficulty.

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The first step is to identify a person who needs help; in this case, suspecting heat exhaustion or heatstroke, you must take the person to a cool place; after that, you must remove excess clothing and wet the person with damp cloths.

While waiting for an ambulance, continuing to cool the individual by fanning them or using a fan is recommended. SUME 911 stresses the importance of calling for professional medical assistance immediately. "With an alteration of the state of alertness, we would suspect that the patient is worsening, and we would even have to administer intravenous solutions," stated James Rivera of SUME 911 Medical Emergencies.

Heat exhaustion occurs from prolonged exposure to high temperatures or physical exertion. Heatstroke, a more severe condition, happens when the body loses its ability to regulate temperature, potentially causing it to exceed 40°C (104°F) and become life-threatening. SUME 911 advises staying hydrated, avoiding prolonged sun exposure, and being vigilant for early warning signs to ensure timely intervention.

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With an alteration of the state of alertness, we would suspect that the patient is worsening, and we would even have to administer intravenous solutions.