Heat Stroke in Bangkok: Understanding the Dangers in Thailand's Hot Capital

Heat stroke is a serious medical emergency that happens when your body overheats and can't cool down. When body temperature rises above 40°C (104°F), it can lead to death or permanent disability if not treated quickly. In Bangkok, where it's extremely hot and humid, heat stroke is a significant health risk that everyone should be aware of.

Why Bangkok Gets So Hot
Bangkok is particularly hot for several reasons:
     1.Concrete Jungle Effect: The city's buildings, roads, and concrete surfaces absorb and trap heat, making Bangkok up to 7°C hotter than nearby countryside areas.
     2.Very High Humidity: Bangkok's humidity (usually 70-90%) makes it harder for sweat to evaporate, which is how our bodies naturally cool down.
     3.High Temperatures: Bangkok regularly sees temperatures above 35°C (95°F), with the hottest months (March-May) often reaching over 40°C (104°F).
     4.Air Pollution: The city's air pollution can make heat-related health problems worse.

Heat Stroke Numbers in Bangkok
Recent health reports show:
     - Hospital visits for heat-related problems increase by 25-30% during the hot season
     - Heat stroke cases have increased by 15% over the last five years
     - Elderly people and outdoor workers make up about 60% of heat stroke cases
     - Several deaths occur during extreme heat waves each year

What Causes Heat Stroke
Heat stroke can happen due to:
     1.Being in extremely hot places for too long
     2.Physical activity in hot weather
     3.Not drinking enough water
     4.Wearing too much or heavy clothing
     5.Drinking alcohol, which affects how your body handles heat

Who's Most at Risk in Bangkok
People who need to be extra careful include:
     1.Elderly people, especially those without air conditioning
     2.Young children in schools without proper cooling
     3.Tourists not used to tropical heat
     4.Outdoor workers like street vendors, construction workers, motorcycle taxi drivers, and traffic police
     5.People with health conditions like heart disease, high blood pressure, or obesity
     6.People taking certain medications

Signs of Heat Stroke to Watch For
 Look for these warning signs:
     - Very high body temperature (above 40°C/104°F)
     - Red, hot, and dry skin (sometimes with sweating)
     - Fast heartbeat
     - Quick, shallow breathing
     - Severe headache
     - Feeling sick or vomiting
     - Confusion or strange behavior
     - Fainting or unconsciousness
     - Not sweating despite the heat (in serious cases)

First Aid for Heat Stroke in Bangkok
If someone shows signs of heat stroke:
     1.Call emergency services (1669) or get them to a hospital immediately
     2.Move them to a cool place (shopping malls, BTS stations, or convenience stores can help)
     3.Remove extra clothing
     4.Cool them down by:
          - Applying cool water to their skin
          - Using fans
          - Placing ice packs at armpits, groin, neck, and back
     5.Give them water to drink if they're conscious
     6.Check their temperature regularly
     7.If unconscious, put them in recovery position (on their side) to prevent choking

Hospital Treatment in Bangkok
Bangkok hospitals will typically:
     - Give fluids through an IV
     - Monitor vital signs closely
     - Take steps to lower body temperature
     - Check for and treat complications

Major hospitals equipped for heat stroke include Bumrungrad International Hospital, Bangkok Hospital, Samitivej Hospital, Chulalongkorn Hospital, and Siriraj Hospital.

How to Prevent Heat Stroke in Bangkok
To stay safe in Bangkok's heat:
     1.Drink plenty of water (2-3 liters daily)
     2.Stay indoors between 11 AM and 3 PM when it's hottest
     3.Wear light, loose-fitting clothes
     4.Use sunscreen with high SPF
     5.Spend time in air-conditioned places like shopping malls
     6.Avoid alcohol and caffeine
     7.Give your body time to adjust to the heat if you're new to Bangkok
     8.Use umbrellas or wear hats outdoors
     9.Pay attention to heat warnings from weather services

What Bangkok is Doing About the Heat
The city government has taken steps to help people stay cool:
     - Setting up cooling centers during extreme heat
     - Creating more parks and green spaces
     - Running public awareness campaigns
     - Installing misting systems in some areas
     - Providing free drinking water stations

Conclusion
Heat stroke is a serious danger in Bangkok's hot and humid weather. Understanding the risks and taking simple precautions can keep you safe. If you see someone showing signs of heat stroke, help them immediately and get medical assistance as quickly as possible. Quick action can save lives.
 

Source:

ArokaGO Health Library Heat Stroke