What should you know about minor sunstroke symptoms?

Minor sunstroke symptoms can include headache, dizziness, nausea, weakness, thirst, sweating and difficulty coping with heat. Heat illness can worsen quickly, especially after exercise or time in a hot, poorly ventilated place.

The body normally cools itself through sweating and increased blood flow to the skin. Heat exposure, dehydration or strenuous activity can overwhelm that process. Early symptoms may overlap with heat exhaustion, which can involve heavy sweating, fatigue, headache, cramps and feeling faint. Fever, confusion, fainting, seizures, hot skin with little or no sweating, or a change in alertness are more concerning signs than a simple feeling of warmth.

Stop activity and move to shade or an air-conditioned room. Loosen extra clothing, rest, and cool the skin with a fan, cool wet cloths or a lukewarm shower. If the person is fully awake and able to swallow, offer small, frequent sips of water or an oral rehydration drink. Avoid alcohol and strenuous activity while recovering. Do not give drinks to someone who is confused, drowsy or vomiting repeatedly.

Seek emergency help for confusion, collapse, a seizure, severe breathlessness, worsening weakness, inability to drink, repeated vomiting or symptoms that do not improve promptly after cooling. A child, older adult, pregnant person or someone with a long-term illness may need medical advice sooner. A clinician may assess temperature, hydration and mental alertness; IV Fluid Therapy can be considered when fluids cannot be replaced safely by mouth.

Ask what likely triggered the episode, how long to avoid heat and exercise, which fluids are suitable for you, and how to prevent another episode during outdoor activity.