We’re right in the middle of a heatwave, with temperatures
set to rise by the end of the week so it’s a good time to talk about heat
related emergencies, and how we should manage them. The main difference to
understand is that heat exhaustion can usually be managed fairly easily, but
heat stroke is a medical emergency.
Heat Exhaustion
Heat exhaustion happens when your body becomes too hot and
starts losing water and salts through sweating.
Common signs of heat exhaustion:
● Feeling tired or weak
● Dizziness or feeling faint
● Headache
● Feeling sick or vomiting
● Excessive sweating
● Pale, clammy skin
● Muscle cramps
● High temperature
● Extreme thirst
● Irritability or feeling unwell
Heat exhaustion is usually not serious if treated quickly. However,
it can develop into heat stroke if ignored.
How to Treat Heat Exhaustion
If someone has signs of heat exhaustion:
● Move them to a cool place
● Remove unnecessary clothing
● Encourage them to drink water
● An isotonic sports drink or oral rehydration
solution can also help replace salts lost through sweating
● Cool their skin using:
● Cool water sprays or sponges
● A fan
● Cold packs wrapped in a cloth placed under the
armpits or on the neck
Remember:
● Stay with them while they recover
● Most people should start feeling better within
30 minutes
Heat Stroke
Heat stroke occurs when the body’s cooling system stops
working and body temperature becomes dangerously high.
Signs of heat stroke:
● Very high temperature
● Hot skin with little or no sweating
● Fast breathing
● Fast heartbeat
● Confusion or unusual behaviour
● Restlessness
● Seizures (fits)
● Loss of consciousness
Heat stroke is a medical emergency and can be
life-threatening.
What To Do If You Suspect Heat Stroke
Call 999 immediately if:
● Someone still feels unwell after 30 minutes of
treatment for heat exhaustion
● They have a very high temperature
● They are confused or disoriented
● They have a seizure
● They lose consciousness
While waiting for help:
● Move them to a cool place
● Remove excess clothing
● Continue cooling their skin with water, fans, or
cold packs
● If unconscious but breathing, place them in the
recovery position
Quick Memory Tip
Heat Exhaustion = Cool, Drink, Recover
● Sweaty
● Thirsty
● Dizzy
● Usually improves within 30 minutes
Heat Stroke = Call 999
● Confused
● Very hot
● Not sweating
● Seizure or unconsciousness
Knowing the difference could save a life. If in doubt, seek
medical advice and never ignore symptoms that are getting worse.