High temperature warnings have been issued in Beijing this week. After a thunderstorm, the sun is still scorching hot. We interviewed Zhang Jing, the chief emergency physician of Tongren Hospital E-Town Branch, for tips on how to protect ourselves from a heat stroke.

According to her, the symptoms of a heat stroke can be divided into three categories: aura, mild and severe.

Aura heat stroke refers to symptoms in a high temperature environment such as fatigue, sweating, thirst, headache, dizziness, vertigo, tinnitus, nausea, chest tightness, etc. With symptoms like these, you should immediately move to a cool place to rest.

Persons with mild heat stroke show flushing, skin burning, body temperature rising to above 38 °C, nausea, vomiting, pale complexion, increased pulse rate, decreased blood pressure, and wet and cold skin.

In addition, severe heat stroke may show symptoms such as abdominal pain, fever, coma, collapse or shock. It may lead to death.

In daily life, she suggested that people can use the following methods to prevent heat stroke. For people who are elderly, pregnant, or those with chronic diseases, especially cardiovascular, cerebrovascular diseases, they should reduce outdoor activities in summer. If they must go out, it is advisable to choose early morning or late evening and minimize the time spent outdoors. If going out at noon, using umbrellas and wearing sunglasses are recommended. Carry sports drinks or light salt water to replenish water, keep medicated oil and cooling balm in your bag. If heat stroke occurs, use these medications to alleviate symptoms promptly.

Regarding diet, Zhang suggested to eat foods that are easily digestible, high in vitamins, high protein, low-fat, and avoid greasy meals. It's beneficial to eat plenty of fresh vegetables and fruits regularly and to avoid excessive drinking or getting drunk. We should drink more warm water and cooled boiled water. During summer, 1,500 to 2,000 milliliters of daily water intake is good. Young people who enjoy iced drinks should drink moderately and avoid having them too quickly or vigorously. Those with chronic illnesses, just recovering from serious illnesses, or who are physically weak should enhance their protective awareness and avoid engaging in high-temperature activities.