Alcohol and heat stroke

Heat stroke occurs when the body can no longer control its temperature adequately and brain function becomes affected. Alcohol may contribute to dehydration, cloud judgement, and make confusion or unsteady behaviour easier to mistake for intoxication. A person with heat stroke may have altered behaviour, collapse, seizure, vomiting, very hot skin, or loss of consciousness. Sweating may be present or absent, so dry skin is not required before taking action.

Call emergency services first, then move the person out of the heat. Remove excess outer clothing and cool them continuously with cool water, wet towels, fanning, or cold packs wrapped in cloth at the neck, armpits, and groin. Follow the emergency call handler's instructions. Do not give alcohol, fever medicine, or drinks to anyone who is confused, drowsy, vomiting repeatedly, having a seizure, or unable to swallow normally.

Confusion, unusual agitation, collapse, seizure, fainting, or reduced responsiveness during heat exposure calls for emergency care. Begin cooling immediately rather than waiting to see whether the person improves. If they are unconscious and breathing, place them on their side; if they are not breathing normally, start resuscitation if you are able and use an automated defibrillator if available. Hospital care may include close monitoring and intravenous fluids when clinically appropriate.

After recovery, discuss whether medicines, a recent illness, or an underlying heart, kidney, or neurological condition could affect future heat exposure. Ask for a practical hydration and activity plan, especially if work or exercise regularly takes place outdoors.