Of all of the heat-related problems that could occur, heatstroke is the most dangerous. Heat stroke is often the result of exercising or heavy work, which takes place in hot places where the person has an inadequate fluid intake.

To suffer from a heatstroke, you do not have to be older.  Young children, older adults, people who are obese and people born with an impaired ability to sweat are at high risk of heatstroke.  Some more important risk factors include dehydration, alcohol use, cardiovascular disease and certain medications.

Since heatstroke can occur at any time to anyone, there are symptoms you should be able to identify:

  • Rapid heartbeat
  • Rapid and shallow breathing
  • Elevated or lowered blood pressure
  • Cessation of sweating
  • Irritability, confusion or unconsciousness
  • Feeling dizzy or lightheaded
  • Headache
  • Nausea
  • Fainting, which may be the first sign in older adults

To read more about heatstroke visit: http://mayoclinic.com/health/first-aid-heatstroke/FA00019