What should you know about fever from heat stroke?

Heat stroke occurs when the body cannot control its temperature after intense heat or exertion. Hot skin, headache, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, weakness, rapid breathing, and confusion can occur. Unlike heat exhaustion, heat stroke can impair the brain and other organs. The person may sweat heavily or have dry skin, so sweating does not rule it out. A thermometer reading can help, but do not delay help while trying to obtain one.

Call emergency services, move the person to shade or an air-conditioned place, remove excess clothing, and cool the skin with cool water, wet cloths, or cold packs wrapped in fabric. Fan the person while cooling. Stay with them and note the heat exposure, symptoms, and any medicines or medical conditions. Do not give drinks to someone confused, vomiting, very drowsy, or unable to swallow safely.

Any suspected heat stroke needs emergency assessment, particularly confusion, collapse, seizure, severe headache, repeated vomiting, or inability to drink. Do not rely on rest at home or a fever tablet. A medical team may provide monitored cooling and IV Fluid Therapy while checking for dehydration and organ stress. Symptoms that improve still deserve urgent advice because serious effects may continue after the skin feels cooler.

Ask how long cooling should continue, which warning signs to watch for after discharge, when fluids and normal activity can restart, and how to prevent another heat illness.