Heat Stroke and Rhabdomyolysis: What You Should Know

Heat stroke is a medical emergency in which the body cannot control its temperature and the brain or other organs may be affected. Rhabdomyolysis happens when damaged muscle fibres release substances into the bloodstream. Severe heat, intense exertion, dehydration, or prolonged collapse can contribute to this muscle injury. Possible clues include marked muscle pain, weakness, swelling, unusual tiredness, or urine that looks darker than usual. Symptoms can develop during the heat illness or later, so feeling cooler does not by itself rule out ongoing injury.

Call emergency services if heat stroke is suspected. Move the person to a cooler place, remove excess clothing, and cool the skin with cool wet cloths or water while help is coming. Do not give drinks to someone who is confused, vomiting, having a seizure, or unable to swallow safely. Do not rely on rest at home when severe heat exposure is followed by muscle weakness, swelling, or dark urine. In a medical setting, clinicians may check temperature, kidney function, electrolytes, and muscle injury, then provide treatment and monitoring.

Seek emergency care immediately for confusion, fainting, seizure, loss of consciousness, very hot skin, trouble breathing, or inability to drink safely. Prompt assessment is also needed for severe muscle pain or weakness, reduced urine, or dark urine after strenuous activity in the heat. These signs can indicate heat-related organ injury or rhabdomyolysis; they should not be judged by comparing them with ordinary Muscle Soreness After Exercise.

Ask which blood and urine tests are needed, whether kidney function needs repeat checking, how much activity and heat exposure to avoid during recovery, and which changes in urine, swelling, or strength should prompt a return visit.