Light heat stroke symptoms: what to know

Heat stroke can develop after intense heat exposure or exertion. Warning features include altered behaviour, confusion, unusual drowsiness, loss of coordination, collapse, or a seizure. The skin may feel hot; sweating can be present or absent, so sweating does not rule it out.

Heat exhaustion is less severe but can progress. It commonly brings heavy sweating, weakness, headache, dizziness, cramps, nausea, or vomiting. A fever from infection is a different process, although feeling hot does not explain the cause by itself.

Call emergency services at once if heat stroke is possible. Move the person to shade or an air-conditioned place, remove extra clothing, and cool the skin with cool water, wet cloths, or fans while help is coming.

Stay with the person and monitor breathing. Do not give drinks to someone who is confused, vomiting, having a seizure, or unable to swallow safely. Once medical professionals advise it, fluids may be given in a suitable way; some people require IV fluid therapy.

Emergency assessment is needed for confusion, fainting, seizure, severe weakness, trouble breathing, repeated vomiting, or a person who remains very hot after cooling begins. Do not wait for a thermometer reading when mental state or coordination has changed.

Ask how to recognise early heat exhaustion, how long to avoid exertion after an episode, and whether medicines or health conditions increase your sensitivity to heat. Ask for a personalised hydration and cooling plan if episodes have happened before.