Signs of Heat Stroke: 7 Ways Your Body Tells You It's Overheating & What to Do by Cindy Cooke, DNP, FNP-C, FAANP


Signs of Heat Stroke: 7 Ways Your Body Tells You It's Overheating & What to Do

Have you ever seen a car overheat? Your body does the same thingHeat stroke is the equivalent of a steaming hood. Left untreated, it can damage your brain, heart, kidneys and muscles. Heat stroke can be caused by excessive heat or overexertion. 

Regardless of the cause, it’s an emergency, and the longer you wait to get help, the more damage it causes. Know these signs of heat stroke before it’s too late:

  • High body temperature – a temperature of 104 degrees or higher
  • Change in behavior – confusion, agitation, slurred speech and irritability
  • Difficulty breathing – shallow, rapid breaths
  • No sweat – hot, dry, red skin
  • Nausea – feeling like you want to vomit
  • Racing heart – a symptom of working overtime to cool the body
  • Headache – a sign of dehydration

Young kids, older adults and people who are overweight are more prone to heat stroke, but anyone can suffer if they don’t prepare for the heat. If you suspect someone is experiencing heat stroke do the following:

  • Call 911 immediately.
  • Move them to a cooler place.
  • Remove excess clothing.
  • Give them water to drink.
  • Apply cold cloths or ice. 

Remember, heat stroke is dangerous, so act fast!

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Elisa Schmitz
This is scary. Once at a baseball game, I felt my heart racing and like I was going to vomit. I got into shade and drank cool water, and it cleared up. I didn't realize at the time that it may have been the start of heat stroke. Thank you for this important info, Cindy Cooke, DNP, FNP-C, FAANP !
Donna John
This happened to me a couple months ago. It's scary and you feel horrible. Drink lots of water when you're in the heat, especially if you're drinking alcohol. I learned the hard way.
bepositive
Wow, good to know this. 🌞
Cassiday
So scary. Stay cool and hydrated in these extra warm times.
Julio Caro
Thanks For Sharing....

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