Heat stroke is a life-threatening medical emergency that occurs when the body's temperature rises to dangerous levels (above 104°F/40°C) and cannot cool down. Immediate treatment is critical to prevent permanent damage or death.

Types of Heat-Related Illnesses

Heat Cramps (Mild)

• Painful muscle cramps, usually in legs or abdomen
• Heavy sweating during intense activity
• Normal body temperature

Heat Exhaustion (Moderate)

• Heavy sweating and pale, clammy skin
• Weakness, dizziness, nausea
• Headache and muscle cramps
• Body temperature up to 104°F (40°C)

Heat Stroke (SEVERE - EMERGENCY)

• Body temperature above 104°F (40°C)
• Hot, dry skin or profuse sweating
• Confusion, agitation, or loss of consciousness
• Rapid, strong pulse
• This is a MEDICAL EMERGENCY

Immediate Treatment for Heat Stroke

1 Call Emergency Services (108)

• This is a LIFE-THREATENING EMERGENCY
• Call immediately - don't wait
• While waiting for help, begin cooling
• Have someone stay with the person at all times

2 Move to Cool Environment

• Get person out of heat immediately
• Move to air-conditioned room if possible
• If indoors not available, move to shaded area
• Remove excess clothing
• Lay person down

3 Cool the Body RAPIDLY

Most Critical Step - Cool body temperature as quickly as possible:

• Cold water immersion - Most effective if available (bathtub, pool)
• Cool shower or hose - If immersion not possible
• Wet sheets - Cover body with cool, wet sheets
• Ice packs - Apply to neck, armpits, and groin
• Fan - Use fan while spraying with cool water
• Goal: Reduce temperature to 101-102°F (38-39°C)

4 Monitor and Support

• Check body temperature every 5-10 minutes
• Monitor breathing and consciousness
• If unconscious, place in recovery position
• Be prepared to perform CPR if needed
• Continue cooling until emergency services arrive

5 Hydration (If Conscious)

• Give small sips of cool water
• Sports drinks or ORS (Oral Rehydration Solution) preferred
• Don't force fluids
• No alcohol or caffeine
• If vomiting, stop giving fluids

What NOT to Do

• Don't give aspirin or acetaminophen - Won't help and may be harmful
• Don't use rubbing alcohol - Can be absorbed and cause problems
• Don't give anything to drink if unconscious - Choking risk
• Don't stop cooling - Even if person feels cold
• Don't leave person alone - Monitor constantly
• Don't use ice water - Can cause shivering (raises temperature)

Signs and Symptoms in Detail

Physical Signs

• High body temperature (above 104°F/40°C)
• Red, hot, dry skin (in classic heat stroke)
• OR heavy sweating (in exertional heat stroke)
• Rapid, strong pulse initially, then weak pulse
• Rapid shallow breathing
• Low or high blood pressure

Neurological Signs

• Confusion or disorientation
• Slurred speech
• Agitation or irritability
• Seizures
• Loss of consciousness or coma
• Hallucinations

Other Symptoms

• Severe headache
• Nausea and vomiting
• Dizziness and vertigo
• Weakness and fatigue
• Muscle cramps or pain

Who Is at Risk?

High-Risk Groups

• Infants and young children
• Adults over 65
• People with chronic illnesses (heart, lung, kidney disease)
• Athletes and outdoor workers
• Obese individuals
• People taking certain medications
• Those not acclimatized to heat

Medications That Increase Risk

• Diuretics (water pills)
• Blood pressure medications
• Antihistamines
• Antipsychotics
• Stimulants

Treatment for Heat Exhaustion

If caught early, before progressing to heat stroke:

1. Move to cool place immediately
2. Rest - Lie down and elevate feet
3. Remove excess clothing
4. Drink cool fluids - Water or sports drinks
5. Cool the body - Wet cloths, fan, cool shower
6. Monitor - Should improve within 30 minutes

Seek medical care if:

• No improvement after 30 minutes
• Symptoms worsen
• Temperature continues to rise
• Unable to drink fluids

Hydration Guidelines

Before Activity

• Drink 16-20 oz (500-600 ml) water 2-3 hours before
• Drink 8-10 oz (250-300 ml) water 10-20 minutes before

During Activity

• Drink 7-10 oz (200-300 ml) every 10-20 minutes
• Use sports drinks for activities over 1 hour
• Don't wait until thirsty

After Activity

• Drink 16-24 oz (500-750 ml) for every pound lost
• Continue hydrating for several hours

Warning Signs to Watch For

Stop activity immediately if you experience:

• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Extreme fatigue or weakness
• Headache
• Nausea or vomiting
• Muscle cramps
• Confusion or difficulty concentrating
• Decreased sweating despite heat

Special Situations

Heat Stroke in Children

• Children overheat faster than adults
• May not recognize symptoms themselves
• Never leave child in parked car - even briefly
• Ensure adequate breaks and hydration during play

Heat Stroke in Elderly

• May not feel thirsty despite dehydration
• Medications may impair heat regulation
• Check on elderly neighbors during heat waves
• Ensure access to air conditioning

Heat Stroke in Athletes

• Exertional heat stroke can occur even in moderate temperatures
• Immediate ice water immersion is gold standard
• Don't return to activity until cleared by doctor
• Gradual return to training over several weeks

Recovery and Long-term Effects

Immediate Recovery

• Hospital stay for monitoring
• IV fluids and electrolytes
• Organ function tests
• Rest for several days

Possible Complications

• Organ damage (brain, heart, kidneys, liver)
• Increased sensitivity to heat for weeks
• Permanent neurological problems in severe cases
• Death if not treated promptly

Return to Activities

• Medical clearance required
• Gradual reintroduction to heat
• Close monitoring for several months
• Extra precautions in future

Key Takeaways

• Heat stroke is a LIFE-THREATENING EMERGENCY
• Call 108 immediately
• Cool body temperature rapidly
• Every minute counts
• Prevention is key - stay hydrated and avoid excessive heat
• Monitor high-risk individuals closely
• Never leave anyone in a parked car

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