Fatal heat stroke: warning signs and urgent action

Heat stroke overwhelms the body's ability to control its temperature and can injure the brain and other organs. Skin may feel very hot and can be dry or sweaty; sweating is not a reliable way to rule it out. Headache, dizziness, weakness, nausea, vomiting, a fast pulse, or a high temperature may occur before mental changes. Heat exhaustion can progress to heat stroke, particularly after prolonged heat, exertion, or dehydration.

Call emergency services at once. Move the person to shade or a cool indoor area, remove extra clothing, and cool the skin rapidly with cool water, wet cloths, fans, or ice packs placed on the neck, armpits, and groin. Stay with them and monitor breathing. Do not give drinks to a confused, drowsy, vomiting, or unconscious person, and do not delay the call while trying home cooling alone.

Any confusion, fainting, seizure, severe weakness, loss of coordination, or inability to drink after heat exposure warrants emergency care. Vomiting, worsening headache, or a very hot body with a changed mental state should also be treated urgently. Hospital treatment may include active cooling, monitoring, and IV fluid therapy to support circulation and organ function.

Ask how to recognise heat exhaustion before it worsens, which medicines or health conditions increase heat risk, and when outdoor activity should stop. If someone has recovered from heat stroke, ask when they can safely return to work, exercise, or hot environments.