On a sweltering day it is easy to assume that only people working or exercising in direct sunlight are at risk of heatstroke, sometimes called sunstroke, yet this life threatening condition can develop indoors too, and its early symptoms are often mistaken for something milder. Knowing how heatstroke happens, what to look for and when to act can save a life.

Can you get heatstroke without being in the sun?

Yes. Heatstroke happens when the body can no longer control its temperature, which usually rises to 40°C or higher, and because the brain is affected, a person can have heatstroke even without a recorded temperature that high. Exertional heatstroke comes from strenuous activity in the heat, while classic heatstroke develops from long exposure to a hot environment, such as a stuffy room without air conditioning, a parked car or a humid heatwave when sweat cannot evaporate. Older adults, young children and people with chronic conditions are most at risk.

What are the symptoms of heatstroke?

Warning signs include a very high body temperature, confusion, agitation, slurred speech, nausea, vomiting, rapid breathing, a racing heart, headache and hot, dry skin or heavy sweating. These can be mistaken for tiredness, an upset stomach, anxiety or heat exhaustion, but the key difference is a change in mental state, such as confusion, odd behaviour or drowsiness, which means heatstroke and needs emergency care.

How can you prevent heatstroke?

Stay hydrated, limit time in extreme heat, spend time in cool indoor spaces, use air conditioning where possible, wear light, loose clothing and take regular rest and water breaks when outdoors. Fans help but should not be relied on in dangerous heat, and a cool, not icy, shower or bath can stop milder heat illness from getting worse. Anyone in a higher risk group, or caring for someone who is, should take extra care.

What should you do if you suspect heatstroke?

Call emergency services immediately. While you wait, move the person somewhere cooler, remove excess clothing and cool them with whatever is at hand, including cold water immersion, wet sheets, fanning or ice packs on the neck, armpits and groin. Do not give anything to drink to someone who is confused, drowsy, unconscious or unable to swallow safely, as delays raise the risk of damage to the brain, heart, kidneys and other organs.

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between heat exhaustion and heatstroke?

Both can cause dizziness, nausea and fatigue, but heatstroke affects the brain, causing confusion or unusual behaviour, and is a medical emergency.

Can heatstroke happen indoors?

Yes. Classic heatstroke can develop in hot, poorly ventilated rooms or vehicles, especially in older people, young children and those with chronic illness.

Where to find Dr Masemola

Dr Tshego Masemola is a general practitioner who practises at The Square Shopping Centre in Sunninghill, on the corner of Leeuwkop and Naivasha roads. Her rooms are open Monday to Friday from 9:00 to 17:00, and on Saturdays by appointment only.

Shop: 10A, The Square Shopping Centre, Sunninghill

Tel: 010 010 6327

WhatsApp: 068 055 9685

Email: tshego@drmasemola.co.za

Website: www.drmasemola.co.za