What should you know about heat stroke low body temperature?

Heat stroke is diagnosed from the circumstances and the person's condition, not from one number alone. Cooling before measurement, sweat on the skin, an unsuitable thermometer or a reading from a less representative body site can affect the result. The body may also continue losing heat after the person leaves the hot environment. Confusion, fainting, seizure, severe weakness, rapid breathing or unusual behaviour remain warning signs even when the displayed temperature seems low.

Call emergency services for suspected heat stroke. Move the person to a cooler place, remove excess clothing and begin gentle active cooling with water, wet cloths, airflow or cold packs around the neck, armpits and groin. Recheck the person rather than repeatedly delaying help for measurements. Give small sips only if they are fully alert and can swallow normally; never give fluids to someone confused or unconscious.

Get emergency help immediately for altered awareness, collapse, a seizure, inability to drink or worsening symptoms following heat exposure. A low reading with shivering, drowsiness or poor coordination also needs urgent assessment. Do not warm an ill person with vigorous rubbing or a very hot bath while waiting for medical advice.

Ask which thermometer and measurement site are dependable, how cooling affects readings, and whether conditions such as Heat Exhaustion or an infection-related Fever could also explain the symptoms.