Heat stroke occurs when the body’s core temperature becomes dangerously high, typically due to prolonged exposure to high temperatures. It’s a serious condition that can cause organ damage or even be fatal if not treated promptly.

One of the biggest challenges with heat stroke is recognizing when it’s happening. The symptoms can be similar to those of heat exhaustion, which is a less severe condition. However, there are some specific signs you can look for to determine if you or someone else is experiencing heat stroke.

1. A High Body Temperature

The hallmark symptom of heat stroke is a body temperature of 104 degrees Fahrenheit or higher. While a fever is usually a sign of illness, heat stroke is a result of external factors, such as dehydration and high temperatures.

If you or someone else has been in the sun for an extended period and begins to feel unwell, take a temperature reading right away using an oral thermometer. If the temperature is high, seek medical attention immediately.

2. Rapid Heartbeat

Heat stroke can cause your heart to beat faster than usual as your body tries to cool down. You may feel your heart racing or pounding in your chest. If you’re concerned about someone else, you can check their pulse to see if it’s elevated.

A normal resting heart rate is between 60 and 100 beats per minute, but during heat stroke, the heart rate may be above 130 beats per minute.

3. Skin That Feels Hot and Dry

If you’re experiencing heat stroke, your skin may feel hot and dry to the touch. This is a result of your body sweating profusely and then stopping when you become severely dehydrated.

Your skin may also appear red and flushed as your blood vessels dilate in an attempt to move heat out of your core.

4. Confusion and Disorientation

As your body temperature rises, you may begin to feel confused or disoriented. Your thoughts may be jumbled, and you may have difficulty concentrating.

If you’re with someone who is experiencing heat stroke, they may not be able to answer simple questions or follow directions.

5. Nausea and Vomiting

Heat stroke can cause nausea and vomiting, which can further dehydrate the body. If you or someone else is experiencing these symptoms, it’s important to drink fluids to stay hydrated.

However, if the vomiting continues, seek medical attention as soon as possible.

6. Headache and Dizziness

Heat stroke can cause a severe headache and dizziness, which may make it difficult to stand or walk. You may feel as if the room is spinning or that you’re going to faint.

If you experience these symptoms, try to sit or lie down and rest until medical help arrives.

7. Rapid Breathing

Heat stroke can make it difficult to breathe, and you may find yourself breathing faster than usual. This is a result of your body trying to get oxygen to your organs and muscles.

However, if you’re breathing very rapidly, it can cause you to hyperventilate, which can make the symptoms worse.

8. Seizures

Heat stroke can cause seizures in severe cases. If someone is experiencing a seizure, call 911 immediately and move any objects away from them to prevent injury. Stay with the person until medical help arrives.

9. Loss of Consciousness

In rare cases, heat stroke can cause a person to lose consciousness. If someone passes out and is unresponsive, call 911 immediately and check their breathing. If they’re not breathing, perform CPR until medical help arrives.

10. Weakness and Fatigue

If you’re experiencing heat stroke, you may feel weak and fatigued. You may have difficulty standing or sitting up, and you may feel as if you’re going to collapse.

If you experience these symptoms, try to rest and avoid exertion until you can get medical help.

Heat stroke is a serious condition that requires prompt medical attention. If you or someone else experiences any of the symptoms listed here, seek medical help right away.

To prevent heat stroke, be sure to stay hydrated, wear loose-fitting clothing, and try to avoid hot environments whenever possible.