Dealing with Heatstroke

In the four years from 2016 to 2019, there were 1.38 deaths per 100,000 residents each year in NSW due to heatstroke - one of the highest rates in Australia. With summer temperatures set to rise due to climate change, this number is expected to increase. So, how do you recognise heat-related illness and what can you do to prevent it?

What is it?

Heatstroke and sunstroke are the same thing – a serious and life-threatening condition when the body's cooling system fails, and your core temperature exceeds 40°C. The term ‘sunstroke’ is used when the cause is specifically attributed to sun exposure.

Understanding the Terminology & Progression

Heatstroke: The severe stage where the body's temperature control system breaks down, causing the body's core temperature to exceed 40°C (104°F).

Sunstroke: Another name for heat stroke - used when direct sun exposure is the trigger, but it's the same dangerous illness.

Heat Exhaustion: The precursor, where the body is overheating but still trying to cool down (heavy sweating, fast pulse, nausea, cramps).

The Link: Heat exhaustion can progress to heatstroke if not treated, making it crucial to recognise the early signs.

Symptoms like heavy sweating, cool, clammy skin, dizziness, nausea, headache, weakness, and cramps are typically associated with heat exhaustion. If untreated, this can lead to heatstroke.

Heatstroke occurs when the sweating stops and the brain is affected, requiring urgent treatment and care.

Early Signs of Dehydration & Heat-Related Illness

The early signs are heavy sweating, extreme thirst, weakness, dizziness, nausea, muscle cramps, headache, and faintness.

Action: Move to a cool place, rehydrate with water/sports drinks, and rest. If symptoms worsen or don't improve, treat as heatstroke.

• Sweating heavily

• Having a raised body temperature

• Feeling dizzy or faint

• Feeling tired and lethargic

• Reduced appetite

• Feeling thirsty

• Being irritable

• Twitching or having painful muscle cramps in the arms, legs or abdomen.

Signs of Heatstroke (Sunstroke)

• High body temperature (40°C or higher).

• Hot, red skin (can be dry or moist from exertion).

• No sweating (a key sign of severe heat stroke).

• Confusion, agitation, slurred speech, seizures, coma.

• Rapid, shallow breathing, fast pulse.

• Nausea, vomiting, headache, dizziness.

Recognising Heatstroke in Children

Temperature: Very high (over 40°C/104°F).

Mental Changes: Confusion, agitation, irritability, delirium, slurred speech, unusual behaviour, or loss of consciousness/coma.

Skin: Hot, red, and dry (no sweating), but can be sweaty if from strenuous activity. 

Breathing/Heart: Rapid, shallow breathing and a fast, strong pulse (racing heart). 

Other: Severe headache, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, or seizures. 

What to Do in An Emergency

• Call emergency services (000) immediately.

• Move the person to a cooler, shaded spot.

• Cool them down rapidly by using wet cloths, spraying with water, using fans, and applying ice packs (avoid placing ice directly on the skin).

• Remove excess clothing.

• Offer cool fluids (only if they are fully alert and can swallow).

Prevention

Everyone is at risk of heatstroke - but the risk is greater for children and the elderly. To prevent heatstroke, stay cool by seeking air conditioning or shade, wearing light/loose clothing, drinking plenty of water (avoid alcohol/caffeine), and limiting strenuous activity during the hottest hours (usually 11 am–3 pm), planning outdoor tasks for cooler times.

Protect your skin with sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses, and never leave children or pets in parked cars. 

Stay Cool

• Find Air-Conditioning: Spend time in air-conditioned places like libraries or malls if your home is hot.

• Use Fans & Water: Fans help, and misting yourself with a spray bottle or taking cool showers/baths also cools you down.

• Block the Sun: Close curtains and blinds during the day; consider external awnings.

• Cool Down: Sit with your feet in cool water. 

Hydrate & Dress Smart

• Drink Water: Drink water before you feel thirsty; avoid sugary drinks, alcohol, and caffeine.

• Light Clothing: Wear loose-fitting, light-colored clothes made of breathable fabrics like cotton or linen.

• Sun Protection: Use sunscreen, wear a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses when outside. 

Adjust Your Schedule

• Avoid Peak Heat: Plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon.

• Take Breaks: Rest in the shade and rehydrate frequently during outdoor activities.

• Acclimatise: Gradually increase your time outdoors to let your body adjust. 

Be Aware

• Check on Others: Check on vulnerable family, friends, and neighbours.

• Medications: Be aware that some medicines can increase heat risk; talk to your doctor.

• Cars: Never leave children or pets in a parked car, even for a moment.