Heat stroke is a severe form of heat exhaustion causing an abnormal increase in body temperature which can be fatal if not treated immediately.

Causes

• Prolonged exposure to high temperature
• Over exercising

Symptoms

• Headache
• Dizziness or fainting
• Nausea or vomiting
• Confusion
• Rapid pulse
• Breathlessness
• Absence of sweating
• Red and hot skin
• Pale or bluish skin
• Convulsions
• Chills
• Coma

Treatment
Heat stroke is a medical emergency and requires immediate hospitalization. First aid may include:

• Moving the person to a cool place
• Removing clothing
• Splashing cool but not very cold water on the body
• Applying ice packs to head, underarms and groin
• If conscious, then sips of water for oral rehydration

Prevention

• Avoid stepping out in afternoons during peak summers
• Avoid strenuous exercise during hot afternoons
• Wear loose and light clothes during hot weather
• Use hats or scarves while moving out in hot sun