Heat Stroke Symptoms: A Lifesaving Guide for Extreme Heat Warnings

This year, an important part of the United States is being affected by the heat, which is no joke.

Knowing how to keep you and your loved ones safe this summer is crucial, especially because above-normal temperatures are predicted to persist throughout August and vast areas of the nation continue to struggle with high heat.

In 2024, heat killed more Americans than any other significant weather event, including tornadoes and floods, according to a National Weather Service data. A similar conclusion can be drawn from the 30-year forecast for weather-related fatalities.

The risk of heat-related dangers and injuries, which arise from prolonged exposure to high humidity or excessive heat, rises with rising temperatures. The consequences could be fatal in any case.

“Though record high temperatures are expected in the coming days, the duration of the heat as demonstrated by the numerous record warm morning lows will make this period especially oppressive,” the National Weather Service noted on June 20 on X. “Couple this with the fact that this is the first major heat wave of the year – when our bodies aren’t acclimated to the heat yet – will make for an especially dangerous period for many.”

Here are some facts regarding heat stroke, along with treatment tips.

What is heat stroke?

Heat stroke, as described by the Mayo Clinic, is a condition that occurs when the body overheats. This overheating can happen due to prolonged exposure to high temperatures or engaging in physical activities in such conditions.

Most prevalent during the summer months, heat stroke occurs when the body temperature reaches 104 degrees Fahrenheit (40 degrees Celsius) or higher. It is recognized as the most severe heat-related illness.

Other illnesses related to heat include heat exhaustion, rhabdomyolysis, heat syncope, heat cramps, and heat rash.

The Mayo Clinic states that heat stroke necessitates immediate medical attention, as it can lead to damage to the brain, heart, kidneys, and muscles if not addressed promptly. The longer treatment is postponed, the greater the risk of severe complications or even death.

Heat Stroke: Typical Signs and Symptoms

Individuals working in high-temperature settings or those exposed to severe heat are at risk for heat-related health issues, such as heat stroke and heat exhaustion.

As stated by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, these critical conditions arise “when the body loses its ability to regulate temperature: the body temperature escalates quickly, the sweating process ceases, and the body cannot cool itself down.”

Frequent signs or symptoms of heat stroke consist of:

• High body temperature
• Confusion, altered mental status, slurred speech
• Hot, dry skin or profuse sweating
• Nausea and vomiting
• Seizures/loss of consciousness
• Flushed skin
• Rapid breathing
• Racing heart rate
• Headache

How to manage heat stroke

If you suspect that you or someone nearby is suffering from heat stroke, promptly call 911 or your local emergency services number.

While you await medical assistance, you can provide first aid in the following ways:

• Get the person out of direct sunlight, preferably the shade or indoors
• Remove any unnecessary clothing
• Cool the person with whatever means available (Ice pack, pool/tub of water, garden hose, water bottle, mister, damp sponge, or a wet towel)