Effects of sun stroke

Sun stroke happens when the body cannot control its temperature after heat exposure or strenuous activity. The brain may be affected first, causing confusion, unusual behaviour, slurred speech, loss of coordination, or collapse. Severe overheating can also strain the heart, kidneys, muscles, and liver. Numbness and tingling may occur during heat illness, but neurological changes should never be dismissed.

Sun stroke is different from ordinary sunburn or mild heat exhaustion. A person can become seriously ill even if sweating is still present. Rapid action helps limit damage while emergency services are contacted.

Call emergency services if sun stroke is suspected. Move the person to shade or a cool indoor space, remove extra clothing, and cool the skin with cool water, wet cloths, or airflow. Stay with them and monitor their breathing. Do not give drinks to someone who is confused, drowsy, having a seizure, or unable to swallow safely. Do not delay emergency care while trying home cooling measures.

Confusion, collapse, seizure, severe weakness, difficulty breathing, or a very hot body are emergency warning signs. Seek urgent help after heat exposure if the person is not improving quickly with cooling, vomits repeatedly, or cannot drink safely. A GP Consultation can help assess lingering symptoms after recovery, especially if there is ongoing weakness, headache, or numbness.

Ask what may have triggered the overheating, whether medicines or a health condition increase your heat risk, and how to plan cooling, hydration, activity, and breaks in hot weather. Ask when it is safe to return to exercise or work and which symptoms should prompt another assessment.