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Heat stroke is the most severe form of heat-related illness. It happens when the body loses the ability
to regulate its temperature, leading to a swift increase in body heat. As the sweating mechanism shuts
down, the body cannot cool itself, exacerbating the condition.
Symptoms:
Elevated core body temperature >40°C (104°F) and altered mental status (inappropriate behaviour,
confusion, seizures, decreased consciousness, coma), throbbing headache, nausea, dizziness, hot, red,
dry or damp skin, fainting, loss of consciousness.
How to manage it:
- Call 112 or get the victim to a hospital immediately. Heat stroke is a severe medical emergency.
Delay can be fatal.
- Move the victim to a cooler, preferably air-conditioned environment.
- Reduce body temperature with cool clothes. Apply cool, wet cloths, spray the person gently with
cool water; sponge the person with cool water and use fan/air-conditioning. Ice packs in the axilla
and/or groin are also helpful.
- Do NOT give fluids.
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