What should you know about CDC heat stroke?

Heat stroke occurs when the body cannot control its temperature and overheating begins to affect the brain. Confusion, unusual behaviour, collapse, seizures, or loss of consciousness are danger signs. The skin may be hot, and sweating may be present or absent. Heat exhaustion can worsen into heat stroke, so a person who is confused or deteriorating needs emergency help rather than observation at home.

Call emergency services and move the person into shade or an air-conditioned place. Remove unnecessary outer clothing and cool the skin with cool water, wet cloths, fans, or cold packs wrapped in cloth. Keep cooling while waiting for help. Place an unconscious but breathing person on their side and monitor breathing.

Do not give drinks to someone who is confused, drowsy, vomiting, having a seizure, or unable to swallow safely. Do not leave the person alone or delay emergency care to see whether cooling works. Hospital treatment may include IV fluid therapy and close monitoring of temperature, brain function, and organs.

Seek emergency care immediately for confusion, collapse, seizure, fainting, severe weakness, or very hot skin after heat exposure. Vomiting, a high fever, or worsening symptoms in a person with heat illness also requires urgent action. Heat stroke can damage the brain and other organs quickly, so do not drive an impaired person yourself if emergency transport is available.

After recovery, ask what may have contributed to the episode, when it is safe to return to exercise or outdoor work, and how to plan fluids, rest breaks, clothing, and cooling. Mention any medicines or health conditions that affect sweating, hydration, or heat tolerance.