What should you know about having a heat stroke?

Heat exhaustion can worsen into heat stroke, especially after strenuous activity or time in a hot, poorly ventilated place. Fever-like heat, headache, nausea and vomiting can occur, but altered alertness is especially concerning. Brain and other organs can be injured if cooling is delayed.

Call emergency services immediately. Move the person to shade or air conditioning, remove extra clothing, and cool the skin with cool wet cloths, a fan, or a cool bath while help is coming. Stay with them and keep checking breathing. Do not force drinks, and never leave an ill person alone in a hot car.

Any suspected heat stroke needs emergency assessment, even if the person seems better after cooling. Seizure, collapse, confusion, breathing difficulty, repeated vomiting or inability to drink requires immediate emergency care. Heat exhaustion symptoms without confusion still need prompt cooling and medical advice if they do not settle.

Ask what caused the episode, whether you need monitoring for organ effects, how to return to work or exercise safely, and which medicines or health conditions may increase heat risk.