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Sunstroke Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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sunstroke

[ˈsʌnˌstroʊk ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

medical condition

Sunstroke, also known as heat stroke, is a severe form of heat illness that occurs when the body overheats, often as a result of prolonged exposure to or physical exertion in high temperatures. This condition can cause symptoms such as confusion, seizures, loss of consciousness, and even death if not treated promptly. Sunstroke requires immediate medical attention and often involves cooling the body down and rehydration. It is crucial to avoid excessive sun exposure and to stay hydrated during hot weather to prevent sunstroke.

Synonyms

heat prostration, heat stroke, hyperthermia.

Examples of usage

  • He collapsed from sunstroke during the hike.
  • Symptoms of sunstroke include a high fever.
  • Sunstroke can be life-threatening if untreated.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Medical Understanding

  • Sunstroke is also known as heat stroke and happens when the body's temperature rises dangerously high, often exceeding 104°F (40°C).
  • If someone has sunstroke, they may experience confusion, skin that feels hot and dry, and can faint.
  • It is considered a medical emergency that requires immediate treatment to cool down the body.

Preventive Measures

  • Wearing light-colored, loose-fitting clothing and staying hydrated are effective ways to prevent sunstroke.
  • Sitting in shaded or air-conditioned areas during peak sun hours can significantly reduce the risk.
  • Sunscreen helps protect against sunburn, but it does not prevent sunstroke; hydration is key!

Cultural Relevance

  • In some cultures, people take siestas—short naps—in the afternoons to avoid the hottest part of the day, reducing the risk of sun-related illnesses.
  • Beach cultures often promote protective measures against the sun, like wearing hats or seeking shade, as part of their lifestyle.
  • Folklore in regions with intense sun often includes tales of caution, advising to respect the power of the sun to avoid ill effects.

Historical Context

  • The understanding of sun-related illnesses has evolved; ancient civilizations often misattributed symptoms to gods or bad spirits.
  • The development of modern medicine allowed for better definitions and treatments for conditions like sunstroke in the 19th century.
  • Heat-related illnesses gained more attention in the 20th century as outdoor sports and activities became more popular.

Environmental Influence

  • Climate change is increasing instances of extreme heat, making sunstroke a more common concern in many regions.
  • Urban heat islands—areas with more concrete than vegetation—can further exacerbate heat conditions, increasing sunstroke risks.
  • Awareness campaigns are more crucial than ever as rising temperatures lead to more frequent heatwaves globally.

Origin of 'sunstroke'

The term 'sunstroke' dates back to the late 19th century, deriving from the combination of 'sun' and 'stroke', the latter of which is used in various medical terms to denote a sudden or severe attack. The word 'sun' illustrates the cause of the illness, while 'stroke' refers to the medical implications of a sudden onset of symptoms. As the understanding of heat-related illnesses evolved, the term became more widely used in medical literature, although it is often considered synonymous with 'heat stroke', which encompasses a broader range of heat-related complications. Despite its somewhat dated connotation in modern medical terminology, sunstroke remains a recognizable term particularly in contexts related to outdoor activities and preventive health measures.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #31,029 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.