Heat stroke explained

The body normally balances heat through sweating, blood flow to the skin, and behaviour such as resting or seeking shade. During heat stroke, these responses cannot keep up with heat exposure or exertion. Brain warning signs are central: confusion, unusual behaviour, fainting, seizure, or reduced alertness. The person may also have hot skin, headache, weakness, nausea, or vomiting. Heat Exhaustion is milder, but it can progress when cooling and recovery are delayed.

Treat suspected heat stroke as an emergency. Call for medical help, move the person to a cool place, remove extra clothing, and cool the skin with water, wet cloths, ice packs wrapped in cloth, and fanning. Keep checking responsiveness and breathing. Never force liquid into a person who is confused, vomiting, seizing, or unconscious. If they are awake and swallowing normally, small sips may be reasonable while awaiting instructions. Hospital treatment may include rapid cooling, observation, and IV Fluid Therapy.

Seek emergency care for any heat-related change in thinking, fainting, seizure, severe weakness, breathing problem, or inability to drink. A very hot body with persistent headache or vomiting also needs prompt assessment. Do not rely on sweating, a home thermometer, or temporary improvement to decide that the danger has passed.

Ask what may have triggered the episode, whether medicines or illness increase heat sensitivity, and how to prevent another episode. Ask when normal work, exercise, and outdoor exposure can safely resume.