With temperatures soaring above 30°C (86°F) during the day - and sometimes remaining uncomfortably high at night - during summer and often during spring, too, taking extra precautions against heat-related illnesses is vital at this time of year.
While extreme heat affects everyone, medical experts warn that the risks skyrocket for certain vulnerable groups.
To help you stay safe, we turned to Dr Soledad Navarro, Head of the Emergency Department at the Vithas Madrid Arturo Soria University Hospital.
The health crisis expert explains how to spot the early warning signs of heatstroke, why the over-65s are most at risk and the immediate steps you must take in an emergency.
© Getty ImagesWhat is heatstroke? The science behind hyperthermia
As Dr Navarro explains, heatstroke is caused by the body severely overheating. "This typically happens due to prolonged exposure to high temperatures or strenuous physical activity in the heat," she notes.
Without immediate medical intervention, heatstroke can be fatal
It occurs when the body's internal thermostat fails, causing a dangerous spike in body temperature known as hyperthermia. While there is no need to panic - most heat-related incidents are mild - severe hyperthermia or heatstroke is a medical emergency that can be fatal if left untreated.
8 key symptoms of heatstroke to monitor daily
Recognising the symptoms of heatstroke early is crucial so you can take immediate action. According to Dr Navarro, the most common signs include:
- A high body temperature of 40°C (104°F) or above.
- Altered mental state, confusion or unusual behaviour.
- Altered sweating patterns (skin may feel completely dry or excessively sweaty).
- Nausea and vomiting.
- Hot, flushed or reddened skin.
- Rapid, shallow breathing.
- A racing heart rate.
- A throbbing headache.
If you suspect someone is suffering heatstroke, it is imperative to cool them down immediately.
First-aid checklist: What to do if you suspect heatstroke
The critical question is how to react if you suspect someone is suffering in the extreme heat. "If you think someone has heatstroke, seek medical help immediately," advises Dr Navarro. "Call your local emergency services [999 in the UK or 911 in the US] ASAP."
Our expert also recommends taking immediate steps to cool the person down while waiting for paramedics to arrive. "Move them into the shade or indoors. Use whatever means available to cool them down - put them in a cool bath, fan them while misting them with water or place ice packs or cold, wet towels on their neck, armpits and groin. The primary goal is to lower their body temperature safely and quickly."
Placing ice packs or cold, wet towels on key areas can help lower body temperature
While waiting for emergency services to arrive, the person should lie down with their feet slightly elevated in a cool, well-ventilated area, and any tight clothing should be loosened.
An important note: never give fluids to drink if the person is confused, vomiting or semi-conscious. This poses a severe choking hazard.
Heatstroke and sunstroke: Understanding the terms
We asked Dr Navarro to clarify the difference between these two frequently confused terms. "Sunstroke is the result of prolonged, direct exposure to the sun without proper protection," she explains. "Heatstroke, on the other hand, is the general term for the severe condition where the body completely loses its ability to regulate its own temperature, allowing the core body temperature to skyrocket past 40°C (104°F)."
© Getty ImagesAdults over 65 and children face higher heat risks
Certain groups are far more vulnerable to the effects of extreme heat. Dr Navarro notes that heatstroke is particularly dangerous for infants and young children, adults over the age of 65, and anyone who is already physically frail, dehydrated or living with obesity.
For those struck by the condition, recovery times vary. "Generally, the initial symptoms will begin to subside within a few hours [after professional medical treatment]," says Dr Navarro. "However, in more severe cases, a full recovery can take days or even weeks."
Older people are more vulnerable because as we age, our bodies cannot regulate core temperature as efficiently as younger people. The over-65 demographic also has a higher likelihood of pre-existing conditions or taking prescription medication, some of which can hinder the body's response to heat
As noted, heatstroke can have devastating consequences if it isn't treated promptly, potentially causing severe organ damage. "Heatstroke can cause the brain and other vital organs to swell, which can result in permanent damage [or death]," Dr Navarro warns.
Expert tips to prevent heatstroke during a heatwave
There are ways to help protect yourself - or your loved ones - from hyperthermia.
- Avoid going out in the direct sun during the hottest parts of the day.
- Stay well-hydrated by drinking water throughout the day.
- Drink plenty of fluids before, during and after exercise.
- Avoid drinking alcohol, which exacerbates dehydration.
- Avoid overdressing babies and young children in hot weather.
- Keep indoor spaces well-ventilated.
About the expert
Dr Soledad Navarro is Head of the Emergency Department at the Vithas Madrid Arturo Soria University Hospital in Spain.
