Heat Stroke: What Everyone Needs to Know
By Jenny Thudium, Emergency Room Manager at Pershing Health System
As temperatures rise during the summer months, so does the risk of heat-related illnesses—one of the most serious being heat stroke. Unlike a simple sunburn or even heat exhaustion, heat stroke is a life-threatening emergency that requires immediate attention.
What Is Heat Stroke?
Heat stroke happens when your body becomes unable to regulate its temperature. Normally, the body cools itself by sweating, but in extreme heat or during intense physical exertion, this system can fail. When body temperature rises to 104°F (40°C) or higher and cooling mechanisms stop working properly, heat stroke can set in.
Warning Signs and Symptoms
Recognizing the signs of heat stroke quickly can save lives. Symptoms include:
- High body temperature (104°F or above)
- Hot, dry skin (though sweating may still occur)
- Confusion, agitation, slurred speech
- Seizures
- Nausea or vomiting
- Rapid heartbeat
- Loss of consciousness
If you or someone around you shows these symptoms, call 911 immediately.
Who’s Most at Risk?
Anyone can suffer from heat stroke, but some people are more vulnerable:
- Older adults (especially over age 65)
- Infants and young children
- People with chronic medical conditions
- Athletes or workers doing intense activity outdoors
- Individuals without access to air conditioning or hydration
What to Do in an Emergency
If you suspect someone is experiencing heat stroke, take these steps immediately:
- Call emergency services.
- Move the person to a cooler place—indoors or in the shade.
- Cool them down using whatever you have available:
- Apply cold, wet cloths
- Use fans or ice packs, especially on the neck, armpits, and groin
- If conscious, offer small sips of cool water (avoid large amounts)
Do not give fluids if the person is unconscious or vomiting.
Prevention Tips
Preventing heat stroke starts with staying aware and prepared:
- Drink water throughout the day, even if you’re not thirsty.
- Avoid outdoor activity during the hottest part of the day (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.).
- Wear lightweight, breathable clothing.
- Use fans or air conditioning whenever possible.
- Never leave anyone in a parked car—not even for a minute.
Final Thoughts
As someone who works in the emergency room, I’ve seen how quickly heat stroke can escalate. It’s one of the most urgent conditions we treat in the summer—and it’s also one of the most preventable.
“The symptoms can progress rapidly, but with early recognition and quick action, people can recover fully. Prevention and awareness are your best defense. Please take heat seriously—protect yourself and check on others, especially the elderly and young children.”
At Pershing Health System, our emergency team is ready 24/7 if you ever need us. But our hope is that by learning the warning signs and staying vigilant, you’ll never have to.
Stay safe and stay cool this summer.
