Heat stroke
Heat stroke is a life-threatening emergency in which the body overheats and can no longer cool itself. It happens during very hot weather, especially in people working outdoors, older people, young children and people with long-term illness. Without fast cooling and medical care, heat stroke can damage the brain and other organs and can kill.
Symptoms
- Very high body temperature
- Hot, red skin, which may be dry or sweaty
- Confusion, strange behaviour or slurred speech
- Severe headache and dizziness
- Fast heartbeat and fast breathing
- Nausea and vomiting
- Fits or loss of consciousness
Causes
- Long time in hot sun or a very hot place
- Hard physical work or exercise in the heat
- Not drinking enough water
- Wearing heavy clothing in hot weather
- Leaving children in closed cars or rooms
- Older age, illness or some medicines that affect sweating
Prevention
- Drink water regularly in hot weather, even if you are not thirsty
- Avoid hard work in the middle of the day; rest in the shade
- Wear light, loose clothing and cover the head
- Never leave children in a closed car
- Check on older neighbours and relatives during heat waves
Treatment
- This is an emergency: call for help and take the person to hospital
- Move the person to a cool, shaded place
- Remove extra clothing
- Cool the body fast: pour cool water over the skin and fan, or put wet cloths on the neck, armpits and groin
- If awake and able to swallow, give small sips of cool water
- Do not give paracetamol or aspirin for heat stroke, and do not give anything by mouth if the person is confused or unconscious
Common questions
What is the difference between heat exhaustion and heat stroke?
Heat exhaustion causes heavy sweating, weakness, dizziness and thirst, and gets better with rest, shade and water. Heat stroke is more serious: the person becomes confused or faints. Heat stroke needs emergency care.
Is plain water enough when working in the heat?
For most people, regular water is enough. If you sweat a lot for many hours, also eat salty food or drink ORS to replace lost salts.