Overview
Heat stroke is a dangerous rise in body temperature when the body can no longer cool itself, common during India's summer heatwaves, especially in outdoor workers, the elderly and children. It is different from ordinary heat exhaustion because the person becomes confused or unconscious and stops sweating. It is a life-threatening emergency — rapid cooling and hospital care can save a life, so the person must be moved to shade, cooled and taken to hospital without delay.
Symptoms
- Very high body temperature
- Hot, red skin that may be dry (sweating stops)
- Confusion, agitation or slurred speech
- Throbbing headache and dizziness
- Fainting, fits or unconsciousness
When to see a doctor
Heat stroke is an emergency — call 108. Meanwhile move the person to shade, remove extra clothing, and cool them with water and fans.
Emergency — call 108 or go to the nearest hospital
- High temperature with confusion, fainting, fits, or hot dry skin in the heat — call 108 and start cooling the person immediately
Causes
Prolonged exposure to high heat and humidity, hard physical work or exercise in the heat, dehydration, and being unable to cool down.