How Do I Know if Someone Is Experiencing Heatstroke? The most important thing to note about heatstroke is that it is a life-threatening condition that requires immediate medical treatment, so if someone nearby is experiencing one, you should get help for them right away. Heatstroke is more severe than heat exhaustion, and while the two conditions share symptoms, the symptoms of heatstroke are far more serious. If someone is experiencing even one of these symptoms, it is best to seek immediate medical attention.
Symptoms of Heatstroke
- Severe headache
- Weakness
- Dizziness
- Nausea
- Rapid breathing
- Confusion
- Loss of consciousness
- Hot skin with no sweat
- Seizures
How Can I Help Someone Who Is Experiencing Heatstroke?
If you suspect someone is experiencing heatstroke, you should immediately get them medical attention by calling 911 and explaining the situation. While you wait for help to arrive, you can do a few things to lessen the severity of symptoms.What to Do for Heatstroke
- Get the person in an air-conditioned area or at least to a shady spot.
- Douse the person with cool water to lower their body temperature.
- If the person is awake and alert, giving fluids is OK, but never provide fluids to someone who is losing consciousness.