Sun stroke and vomiting

Heat stress can disturb the body’s fluid and salt balance and irritate the stomach, causing nausea or vomiting. Vomiting after time in the sun is not specific to heat illness; gastroenteritis, food poisoning, migraine, gallstones, pancreatitis, and other conditions can also cause it. The surrounding circumstances matter, including body temperature, headache, diarrhoea, abdominal pain, rash, and alertness. A person who is confused or unusually sleepy may need emergency treatment rather than home care.

Move the person into shade or an air-conditioned room, loosen extra clothing, and cool the skin with wet cloths or a fan. If fully awake and able to swallow, give small frequent sips of water or an oral rehydration drink instead of a large glass at once. Pause briefly if vomiting returns, then try again cautiously. Avoid alcohol and strenuous activity. Do not give anything by mouth to someone who is drowsy, confused, or unable to swallow safely.

Seek emergency care for confusion, collapse, a seizure, severe weakness, breathing difficulty, severe abdominal pain, a stiff neck, or a severe headache unlike usual. Get prompt medical help when vomiting is repeated, blood appears, the person cannot keep fluids down, urination becomes very limited, or symptoms continue despite cooling. These features can signal serious dehydration, heat stroke, or another illness requiring examination and treatment.

Ask whether the pattern fits heat illness, whether hydration treatment is needed, which medicines should be paused or continued, and what symptoms should trigger reassessment. Share the timing of sun exposure, vomiting, fluid intake, urine changes, and any abdominal or neurological symptoms.