Heat Stroke

Medical emergency where body temperature regulation fails above 40 Celsius

Step by Step

Heat stroke is a medical emergency: call emergency services. Signs: confusion, agitation, slurred speech, hot skin that may be dry or sweating, rapid pulse, headache, nausea, seizure, or loss of consciousness. Move the person to a cool or shaded place and remove excess clothing. Cool them rapidly while waiting for help: cold water immersion is most effective where it can be done safely, otherwise soak with cold water, apply cold packs to the neck, armpits, and groin, and fan continuously. Do not give fluids unless fully alert and able to swallow. If they become unresponsive and breathing, use the recovery position; be ready to start CPR. Heat stroke can follow heat exhaustion, which causes heavy sweating, weakness, and dizziness.