How to prevent sun stroke

Sun stroke, also called heatstroke, is a dangerous rise in body temperature after heat exposure. The body may stop cooling itself effectively. Confusion, unusual behaviour, fainting, a seizure, severe weakness, or hot skin can signal an emergency. It can develop during exercise, work, travel, or rest in a very hot place, especially when dehydration or high humidity adds strain.

Reduce risk by spending the hottest part of the day in air conditioning or shade. Heat can also worsen existing conditions, so a GP can review your personal risk and medicines. Conditions such as Hypertension, Atrial Fibrillation, and Type 2 Diabetes may require an individual hydration and activity plan.

Drink water at regular intervals and take extra breaks before you feel exhausted or thirsty. Choose loose, pale clothing, a hat, and breathable footwear. Schedule outdoor work or exercise for a cooler time, use shade, and never leave a child, older adult, or pet in a parked vehicle. Keep indoor spaces cool and check on people who may not recognise heat symptoms.

If someone becomes dizzy, nauseated, weak, or confused, move them to a cool place, remove excess clothing, and cool the skin with wet cloths or cool air. Do not give drinks to a person who is confused, faint, or unable to swallow safely.

Call emergency services immediately for confusion, collapse, seizure, severe breathing difficulty, or suspected heatstroke. While waiting, stay with the person and continue safe cooling. Do not delay because sweating is present or absent. New one-sided weakness, facial drooping, or speech difficulty also needs emergency assessment because these can be signs of Stroke; numbness and tingling with sudden neurological change is another reason to act quickly. For milder symptoms that do not settle after cooling and rest, arrange a GP Consultation.

Ask which activities and medicines may increase heat sensitivity, how much fluid is suitable for you, and what warning signs should prompt urgent help. Ask whether your Blood Pressure Medication needs special sick-day advice during vomiting, diarrhoea, or extreme heat.