What should you know about heat stroke manifestations?

The most concerning manifestations involve the nervous system: a person may seem irritable, confused, unsteady, unusually sleepy or unable to answer normally. They may faint or have a seizure. Skin can feel hot and may be dry or sweaty. Headache, dizziness, muscle cramps, fast heartbeat and vomiting can accompany the illness. A person does not need every sign, and symptoms can progress quickly during exertion or in a hot environment.

Call emergency services, then move the person into shade or air conditioning. Remove unnecessary clothing and cool them using water, wet cloths, fans or cold packs around the neck, armpits and groin. Keep the airway clear and watch breathing. If they are unconscious but breathing, place them on their side. Do not offer food, drink or tablets when swallowing or alertness is impaired.

Confusion, fainting, seizure, collapse, severe breathing trouble or repeated vomiting after heat exposure warrants emergency care immediately. Heat Exhaustion can cause weakness and nausea, but a change in mental state signals a more serious problem. Do not wait for a rash, dry skin or a particular thermometer result before seeking help.

Ask which symptoms should trigger an emergency call, how to monitor someone while help is travelling, and when a return to exercise or outdoor work is appropriate.