Heatstroke

Heatstroke is a severe, potentially fatal medical emergency that occurs when the body’s temperature regulation system fails due to prolonged exposure to high heat and dehydration. Unlike milder heat illnesses like heat exhaustion or heat cramps, heatstroke demands immediate intervention.

With global temperatures rising and heatwaves becoming more frequent in India, understanding heatstroke is more important than ever. This blog explores the signs, risk factors, prevention strategies, and treatment methods for heatstroke.

What Is Heatstroke?

Heatstroke, also known as sunstroke, is the most severe form of heat-related illness. It happens when the body’s core temperature rises to 40°C (104°F) or higher, overwhelming its natural cooling mechanisms such as sweating.

If not treated promptly, heatstroke can damage the brain, heart, kidneys, and muscles—sometimes irreversibly. In severe cases, it can even be fatal.

Types of Heatstroke

There are two major forms of heatstroke:

1. Classic (Non-Exertional) Heatstroke

• Usually affects elderly individuals, infants, or those with chronic illnesses.

• Occurs during prolonged exposure to high ambient temperatures.

2. Exertional Heatstroke

• Affects young, healthy, and active individuals.

• Results from intense physical activity in hot environments, often with inadequate hydration.

What Are the Signs of Heatstroke?

Recognizing heatstroke early can save lives. According to the infographic by Sparsh Diagnostic Centre, here are the most common symptoms:

• Elevated body temperature (above 104°F or 40°C)

• Dizziness, confusion, or mental weakness

• Excessive sweating or complete absence of sweating

• Loss of consciousness

• Red, hot, and dry or damp skin

• Nausea and vomiting

• Rapid breathing and heartbeat

• Headache

• Seizures

These symptoms can develop rapidly and worsen quickly. If someone shows any of these signs, treat it as a medical emergency.

Who Is at Risk for Heatstroke?

1. High-Risk Groups

• Infants and children under 4

• Elderly adults (65+)

• Individuals with chronic illnesses (heart disease, diabetes, etc.)

• People with obesity

2. Lifestyle-Related Risks

• Outdoor laborers (construction workers, farmers)

• Athletes or gym-goers exercising in high heat

• Individuals consuming alcohol or dehydrating medications (diuretics)

3. Environmental Risks

• Living in areas with frequent heatwaves

• Poorly ventilated housing

• Lack of access to clean water or cooling devices

Heatstroke vs. Heat Exhaustion

How to Prevent a Heatstroke

Heatstroke is largely preventable. Here are proactive steps you can take, as highlighted in the visual guide from Sparsh Diagnostic Centre:

1. Know When It’s Too Hot

• Check the heat index regularly.

• Avoid outdoor activity during peak sunlight hours (11 AM to 4 PM).

2. Enforce Mandatory Rest Periods

• Workers and athletes should take frequent shaded breaks.

• Alternate work periods with hydration intervals.

3. Dress Smartly

• Wear lightweight, breathable, and light-colored clothing.

• Use wide-brimmed hats, sunglasses, and umbrellas when outdoors.

4. Hydrate Frequently

• Drink water regularly—even if not thirsty.

• Avoid sugary or alcoholic beverages that dehydrate the body.

5. Carry Heat Cards or Indicators

• Use heat stress monitoring cards in industrial or sports environments to detect danger zones.

6. Create a Cool Environment

• Use fans, coolers, or air conditioning.

• Keep living areas shaded and ventilated.

How to Treat Heatstroke

Heatstroke requires immediate emergency treatment to prevent permanent organ damage or death. Here are the top treatment strategies:

1. Ice Water Bath Immersion

• Submerge the patient in a tub of cold or ice water.

• This is the fastest method to reduce core body temperature.

2. Evaporative Cooling Techniques

• Remove excess clothing and spray cool water on the skin.

• Use fans to blow air across the wet skin to enhance heat loss.

3. Cold Compresses

• Apply ice packs to key areas: neck, armpits, groin, and back.

4. IV Fluids and Rehydration

• In a clinical setting, intravenous fluids may be administered.

• Oral rehydration solutions if the patient is conscious.

5. Avoid Ineffective Methods

• Tepid sponging or misting alone may not be sufficient.

• Cooling blankets are slower in comparison to immersion or evaporative methods.

What NOT to Do

• Don’t wait for symptoms to worsen.

• Don’t give caffeine or alcohol.

• Don’t use very cold water if it causes shivering—this can raise internal temperature.

• Don’t try to force fluids if the person is semi-conscious or vomiting.

Potential Complications of Heatstroke

If left untreated, heatstroke can result in:

• Permanent brain damage

• Kidney failure

• Heart rhythm disturbances

• Rhabdomyolysis (muscle breakdown)

• Death

Long-term complications can affect mobility, memory, and overall quality of life.

Heatstroke and Climate Change

Climate change is increasing the frequency, duration, and intensity of heatwaves, especially in urban areas like Kolkata. With rising global temperatures, even healthy individuals are at risk of heat-related illnesses.

Cities need to be heat-prepared by:

• Establishing public cooling centers

• Educating the population on heat risks

• Ensuring water availability for vulnerable communities

First Aid for Heatstroke: Step-by-Step

1. Call for emergency medical help immediately.

2. Move the person to a shaded or air-conditioned space.

3. Remove excess clothing.

4. Cool the person rapidly using:

   • Ice water immersion

   • Wet cloth and fans

   • Cold compresses

5. Offer fluids if the person is alert.

6. Monitor breathing and pulse.

7. Avoid giving medications like paracetamol or aspirin—they won’t reduce body temperature caused by heatstroke.

Heatstroke in Children and the Elderly

Special care must be taken with:

Children

• Cannot regulate body temperature as efficiently.

• Never leave children in parked cars, even for a few minutes.

Elderly

• May not sense temperature changes accurately.

• Often have preexisting conditions or take medications that impair hydration.

Heatstroke in the Workplace

Industries such as construction, mining, and manufacturing expose workers to intense heat.

Employers must:

• Schedule tasks during cooler hours

• Provide hydration stations

• Monitor workers for signs of heat illness

• Use heat stress assessment tools

If you or someone you know has experienced symptoms of heatstroke or heat exhaustion, don’t delay.

Visit Sparsh Diagnostic Centre for:

• Electrolyte panels

• Kidney and liver function tests

• ECG and cardiac evaluation

• Dehydration screening

📍 Centre Hours:
Mon to Sat: 7 AM – 9 PM
Sunday: 7 AM – 3 PM

📱 Contact us: 9830117733 / 8335049501

Heatstroke is entirely preventable with awareness and timely action. As climate conditions become more extreme, it’s essential to recognize the signs, take precautions, and respond quickly in emergencies.

At Sparsh Diagnostic Centre, our expert team is ready to help you stay safe and healthy this summer. Don’t let the heat catch you off guard—stay hydrated, stay protected, and stay alert.

Stay cool. Stay safe. Stay informed—with Sparsh.

To consult a doctor at Sparsh Diagnostic Centre in case of a heat stroke, call our helpline number 9830117733.

#BhaloTheko

Disclaimer:

No content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor or other qualified clinician.