Heatstroke is the most serious effect heat can have on your body. It should not be taken lightly, but it is easily preventable. In hot weather, a few simple steps can make all the difference. Here is what you need to know to recognize it and react accordingly.

What is heatstroke?

Heatstroke, also known as hyperthermia, occurs when the body can no longer regulate its internal temperature. This can occur during prolonged exposure to intense heat, especially in the case of intense exercise or insufficient hydration. This is a situation that requires immediate attention, but it can often be prevented by taking simple steps.

How do you recover from heatstroke?

Dry skin, dizziness or nausea after spending time in the sun. These are the signs that can indicate the onset of heatstroke. At times like these, it is important to act quickly and have the right reflexes:

• Sit down (or have the person sit down) in a cool, well-ventilated place;
• Drink water or a rehydration solution in small sips and rest.

What are the first symptoms of dehydration?

Before heatstroke sets in, the body displays certain warning signs:

Common symptoms

• Extreme fatigue;
• Dry mouth;
• Unusual headaches;
• Nausea;
• A sensation of intense heat;
• Skin may become red, dry and warm to the touch;
• Ceasing to sweat (malfunctioning thermoregulation).

Severe symptoms

• State of confusion;
• Dizziness;
• Loss of balance;
• Accelerated heart rate;
• Rapid breathing;
• Jerky contractions;
• Impaired consciousness.

When should you seek help for heatstroke?

If symptoms show no signs of improvement after a few hours, or if the person's condition worsens or there is no response, consult a health care professional immediately who can confirm the diagnosis and provide appropriate treatment.

If you notice any worrying symptoms or if in doubt, take the person to the emergency room immediately or call 911. This could be a medical emergency.

Thermoregulation and loss of balance

The human body is equipped with certain mechanisms that preserve its internal thermal balance at around 37°C. A certain variation in temperature can be tolerated by a healthy adult without really affecting them.

In periods of extreme heat, the body may have difficulty cooling itself and maintaining its temperature within normal limits. When the body “overheats,” it can lead to problems that manifest themselves in several of the symptoms mentioned above.

How long does heatstroke last?

It all depends on the severity. Mild heatstroke can disappear in a few hours if the right steps are taken quickly. In more severe cases, symptoms may persist for several days, requiring medical attention or even hospitalization.

If in doubt, ask your pharmacist for advice. Depending on the situation and your condition, they can give you advice on how to avoid complications related to heatstroke.

What treatment to apply the day after heatstroke?

After heatstroke, however mild, it is important to continue resting. Stay hydrated and avoid exposure to heat. Keep a close eye on any reappearance of symptoms. It is best to resume your activities gradually.

Risk factors

Some people are more vulnerable to the effects of too much heat. In the following cases, for example:

Babies and young children (under 5)

Babies' bodies do not yet regulate temperature properly, making them highly vulnerable to heat. They also dehydrate more quickly.

The elderly

With age, the sensation of thirst diminishes and thermoregulation becomes less efficient, increasing the risk of heatstroke.

Outdoor workers

They are among the most exposed to the sun, and during physical exertion are at high risk of hyperthermia.

Athletes, especially long-distance runners

Excessive physical effort in hot weather increases body heat production, which can lead to thermal imbalance.

People who are ill, disabled or losing their independence

They may have a hard time spotting the signs of heatstroke or staying hydrated without help.

Alcohol and drug users

These substances can alter heat perception, diminish the body's ability to cool itself, and interfere with good decision-making.

What's the difference between heatstroke and sunstroke?

Sunstroke is caused by the direct effect of the sun on the head, and occurs most often in children after direct sun exposure. It is characterized by intense headaches, nausea, drowsiness, fever, skin burns, and so on. Loss of consciousness may also occur.

Heatstroke can occur when internal temperature rises rapidly, beyond the body's ability to control. This can happen as a result of sunstroke or heat exhaustion. If the body temperature reaches or exceeds 40°C, several symptoms are possible: hot, red and dry skin, violent headaches, confusion, convulsions, fainting, coma, etc. This is a medical emergency and the risk of death must be considered. This is a medical emergency, and the risk of death must be considered.

Heat exhaustion occurs as a result of excessive loss of electrolytes (salts) and fluid caused by heat over a long period of time. This leads to a reduction in blood volume and can cause a variety of symptoms: fatigue, weakness, nausea, vomiting, muscle cramps, insomnia, restlessness, dizziness, fainting, collapse, etc.

To maintain proper hydration throughout a sunny day, it is recommended that you always carry a bottle of water or other refreshing beverages that provide essential minerals to your body. Drinks containing water, lemon and salt are the best way to avoid heatstroke and dehydration.

What medication should I use for heatstroke?

Health professionals generally advise against taking medication to treat heatstroke. Some antipyretics, such as acetaminophen, paracetamol or ibuprofen, have no effect on thermal regulation, and can even be harmful in cases of dehydration.

Before taking any medication, it is essential to ask your pharmacist for advice.

Tips to prevent heatstroke

The best way to protect yourself is through prevention. In hot weather:

• Seek out air-conditioned or shaded areas;
• Drink regularly, even when you're not thirsty;
• Wear long, light-coloured clothing;
• Protect yourself from the sun with a hat, sunglasses and sun cream;
• Reduce physical activity during the hottest hours.

Pay attention to your body and to those who are most vulnerable (children, the elderly, the sick). Heat can be well tolerated if you adopt the right reflexes and take good care of yourself and others.

If you experience symptoms or if a person's condition worsens after prolonged exposure to the sun without proper hydration, see a health care professional immediately.