How To Recognise When You Are Experiencing A Heat Stroke And How To Help Yourself?

Heat stroke is the most serious form of injury in the warm days when you are exposed to direct sunlight and high temperatures, and in most cases is treated as an emergency case.

The group which suffers the most from heat strokes are the ones over 50, but that does not mean that young people or children are more resistant.

The heatstroke is usually preceded by a feeling that the body is burning, fatigue and blackouts, and occurs because of the “failure” of the innate mechanism to control body temperature.

The first symptoms which indicate that you are experiencing or have suffered a heat stroke are the following:


  •  Internal temperature of 40.5 degrees
  • accelerated heartbeat
  • Headache
  •  Dizziness
  • Sensitivity to light
  •  Lack of sweat despite the heat
  •  redness and dryness of the skin
  •  Muscle weakness
  •  Cramps
  •  nausea and vomiting
  •  Wheezing and breathlessness
  •  Rapid breathing
  •  Change in behavior -- confusion, disorientation or panic attacks
  •  Fainting
  • First Aid


If you suspect that you are experiencing a heat stroke, call an ambulance immediately. Any delay in medical assistance can be fatal.

While waiting for the ambulance:


  • Go under a shade
  •  Mandatory slip the clothing, nothing should be tight
  •  Drink fluids
  •  Try to lower the body temperature by cooling the forehead, cold compresses or shower