The Sun: Man's Friend & Foe - Symptoms of Heat Stroke

A person suffering from heat stroke displays some classic symptoms which make identification easy; enabling quick and appropriate medical attention to reach the person in time.

Some early symptoms that can often be observed are:

Bizarre behavior
Irritability
Combativeness
Hallucinations

I f these are observed then it is necessary that the patient be treated immediately to avoid a full fledged case of heat stroke.

Apart from the above, a person suffering from heat stroke will display the following symptoms:

An elevated temperature usually above 105 farenheit (about 39.5 C)
Skin that is hot, dry, and flushed but not sweaty.
Rapid heart beat (normal is about 70 )
Confusion and general disorientation and unresponsiveness

At times it has been reported that colleagues who are unaware of heat stroke and its symptoms may think that the victim is upset, intoxicated or just "acting strangely" and fail to call for help. This can have devastating consequences on the victim as it is vital that proper care reach him in time.