Body temperature in heat stroke

Heat stroke occurs when the body cannot shed heat effectively. The skin may feel hot, and sweating may be present or absent. A reading from the mouth, armpit, forehead, or ear can differ from the body's core temperature, particularly after cooling has started. Confusion, unusual behaviour, drowsiness, seizures, collapse, or loss of coordination are more concerning than a single thermometer result. Heat exhaustion can worsen into heat stroke, but the two should not be managed as though they are interchangeable. Fever from an infection can also raise temperature, yet heat exposure plus a change in mental state requires emergency action.

Call emergency services. Move the person to shade or a cool indoor area, remove excess clothing, and cool the skin with cool wet cloths, water spray, or fanning while help is coming. If they are awake and able to swallow, small sips may be reasonable; do not force fluids. Do not give anything by mouth to a confused, drowsy, vomiting, or unconscious person. Stay with them, place an unconscious but breathing person on their side, and follow the emergency operator's instructions.

Treat confusion, fainting, seizure, severe weakness, or collapse after heat exposure as an emergency, even if the thermometer shows less than expected. Repeated vomiting can prevent safe drinking and increases the need for urgent assessment. Hospital treatment may include active cooling, monitoring, and IV fluid therapy. Do not drive someone who is confused or deteriorating yourself if emergency transport is available.

Ask what likely triggered the overheating, whether medicines or a health condition increase heat risk, how to return to activity, and which early symptoms should prompt immediate cooling and help. Tell the clinician how long the person was exposed and what cooling measures were used.