What should you know about post heat stroke symptoms?

Heat stroke overwhelms the body's ability to control temperature and can affect the brain, circulation, kidneys and other organs. After treatment, a person may remain weak, dizzy, headachy, nauseated or unusually tired. Confusion, reduced alertness, seizures or difficulty walking are more concerning signs. Symptoms can overlap with heat exhaustion, but heat stroke is an emergency and recovery should be guided by clinicians. Do not assume that feeling cooler means the danger has passed.

Follow the discharge plan and avoid strenuous activity, alcohol and further heat exposure until a clinician says it is reasonable to resume them. Rest in a cool environment and replace fluids only as advised, particularly if vomiting or kidney problems occurred. Take prescribed medicines as directed and attend any requested follow-up. IV fluid therapy may be used in urgent care when oral fluids are not suitable, but home treatment should not delay assessment of returning symptoms.

Call emergency services for confusion, fainting, seizure, severe headache, trouble breathing, chest pain, collapse or difficulty waking. Seek urgent assessment for repeated vomiting, inability to drink, very little urine, worsening weakness or a fever after recent heat stroke. Keep the person cool while help is coming, do not give drinks to someone who is confused or unable to swallow, and do not leave them alone.

Ask which symptoms require immediate return, when activity and heat exposure can resume, how much fluid is appropriate, and whether kidney or other follow-up checks are needed.