How common is seizure in heat stroke?

Heat stroke is an emergency in which the body can no longer control its temperature effectively. Brain symptoms may include confusion, unusual behaviour, collapse, loss of consciousness, or a seizure. Skin can feel hot, but sweating may be present or absent. A seizure has many possible causes, so it should not be attributed to heat stroke without urgent clinical assessment; the surrounding heat exposure is an important clue for responders.

Call emergency services immediately. Move the person to a cooler or shaded place, remove excess outer clothing, and begin cooling with cool water, wet cloths, fanning, or cold packs wrapped in cloth at the neck, armpits, and groin. If a seizure occurs, protect the head and clear nearby hazards. Do not restrain the person or give anything by mouth while they are not fully alert.

Confusion, collapse, fainting, loss of consciousness, a seizure, or worsening weakness during heat exposure all need emergency help. Do not wait to see whether these signs settle with rest alone. People who are working or exercising in hot conditions, young children, older adults, and people taking medicines that affect hydration or temperature control may need particular attention during heat exposure.

After urgent treatment, ask what may have contributed to the heat illness, when it is safe to return to work or exercise, and whether medicines or health conditions change your heat precautions. Describe the environment, activity, fluids, symptoms before collapse, and any seizure features witnessed by others.