What is Heatstroke? And How Can It Be Prevented?

By: Maryam Afzal

May 30, 2025

Symptoms, causes, and precautions of heatstroke
Learn what heatstroke is, its major causes, early symptoms, and practical prevention tips to stay safe during extreme heat waves. A must-read health guide for summer safety in Pakistan.

Pakistan is currently experiencing an intense heat wave. With scorching sunlight, lack of airflow, and temperatures rising to 45°C (113°F) or above, the risk of heatstroke significantly increases. Heatstroke typically occurs during extremely hot weather due to direct exposure to sunlight and hot winds. When heat reaches dangerous levels, it becomes a serious medical condition that, if left untreated, can be life-threatening.

This post examines what heatstroke is, its warning signs, and the necessary preventive measures and immediate actions to take.

What is Heatstroke?

A heatwave is a weather condition characterised by prolonged and unusually high temperatures. During hot seasons, intense sunlight, lack of wind, and rising temperatures increase the risk of heatstroke. At present, much of Pakistan is under extreme heat stress. These conditions raise serious health concerns, including the growing number of heatstroke cases.

Heatstroke is a critical condition in which the body temperature rises to 104°F (40°C) or higher, and the body’s cooling mechanism, sweating, stops working. As a result, the internal temperature increases rapidly, potentially damaging vital organs like the brain, heart, kidneys, and muscles.

It often occurs due to spending extended periods in the heat, dehydration, strenuous physical activity in direct sunlight, or poor ventilation. Heatstroke is a medical emergency. Without prompt treatment, it can lead to severe complications or death. Immediate hospitalisation is crucial, as delayed treatment can be fatal.
Major Causes of Heatstroke:

1. Prolonged exposure to direct sunlight:
Staying under intense sunlight for long periods can dangerously raise body temperature.
2. Strenuous physical labour (especially in the sun):
Labourers, farmers, traffic police, and outdoor workers are at high risk if they don’t take breaks or stay hydrated.
3. Dehydration:
Inadequate water intake prevents the body from cooling through sweating, leading to heat buildup.
4. Inappropriate clothing:
Dark or thick clothing traps heat and hinders body cooling.
5. Age or physical weakness:
Children, the elderly, and ill individuals have reduced ability to regulate their body temperature.
6. Poor ventilation or confined spaces:
Sitting in hot, enclosed areas like parked vehicles can cause a rapid temperature spike.
7. Certain medications:
Drugs like diuretics, antidepressants, or blood pressure medicines can interfere with hydration and sweating.
8. Outdoor sports or exercise in the heat:
Physical activity under the sun can dangerously raise internal temperature, especially
Physical activity under the sun can dangerously raise internal temperature, especially without fluid intake.
Early Symptoms of Heatstroke:
Severe headache
Dizziness or fainting
Blurred vision
Rapid breathing and heartbeat
Dry skin due to a lack of sweat
Red, hot, and dry skin
Nausea or vomiting
Confusion, unconsciousness, or seizures
Dehydration
Dark-colored urine
Prolonged exposure to hot and dry weather
Strenuous activity in heat or sunlight
Outdoor work or excessive movement in direct sunlight
Seek immediate medical help if any of these symptoms appear.

Precautionary Measures to Prevent Heatstroke:
1. Stay Hydrated and Eat Right:

1.1 Drink plenty of fluids daily:

Even if you’re not thirsty, drink fluids regularly to avoid dehydration. Avoid vigorous activities in hot conditions. The body loses electrolytes through sweat, so fluids should include homemade fruit juices, lemon water, ORS, salted sugar water, milk, yoghurt, lassi, smoothies, and fresh salads.
Only drinking plain water isn't enough; balance salt and sugar, especially after heavy sweating. Avoid cola, caffeinated drinks (tea/coffee), and alcohol as they worsen dehydration.

1.2 Light, nutritious meals:

Eat light meals, especially those rich in water content, like:

watermelon
cantaloupe
mangoes
tomatoes
cucumbers
pomegranate
bananas

Avoid roadside drinks and pre-cut fruits. If necessary, only buy from clean, reputable vendors.

In case of severe symptoms (dizziness, vomiting, fainting), don’t rely solely on home remedies; call an ambulance or go to the hospital.

2. Avoid Direct Sunlight:

Avoid strenuous outdoor work during peak heat (11 AM to 4 PM).
Use an umbrella, a hat, or a damp cloth on your head when going outside.
Carry a water bottle at all times.
Use sunglasses and sunscreen to protect your skin and eyes from sun damage.
Never leave children or anyone in parked vehicles for more than 5–10 minutes.
If unwell, seek immediate medical help; do not delay.

3. Wear Light and Loose Clothing:

Choose light-coloured, loose-fitting, cotton clothes to stay cool and absorb sweat.
Avoid dark or heavy clothing that traps heat.

4. Stay in Cool, Ventilated Areas:

Keep your living space well-ventilated and cool.
Shower with cool water and avoid going out unnecessarily.
Spend time in areas with fans, air conditioning, or coolers.

5. Special Tips for Outdoor Workers:

If you're a labourer, traffic officer, or farmer, rest in shaded areas hourly.
Drink cold water and electrolyte-rich drinks frequently.
Keep your head covered.
Make sure nearby medical services are available in case of emergency.

Immediate Actions if Heatstroke Happens

Move the person to a shaded, cool surface. Elevate their feet slightly to improve blood flow to the heart.

Loosen tight clothing.
Direct a fan toward the person, or fan them manually if power is unavailable.
Give cool water or ORS if the person is conscious.
Apply cold compresses to the forehead, neck, armpits, and legs.
Avoid crowding; only one person should assist at a time.
Try to keep the person awake and alert.
If they are unconscious or drowsy, immediately call an ambulance or take them to the hospital. Delayed treatment can be fatal.

Disclaimer

This content is intended for general awareness and not as a substitute for medical advice. Causes, symptoms, and preventive measures of heatstroke may vary. Always consult a doctor in emergencies.

Remember

Prevention is better than a cure. Heatstroke is a medical emergency, but with a few precautions, it can be avoided. Keep yourself safe and spread awareness to help others.

Summary

This post provides a comprehensive guide on heatstroke, explaining what it is, its symptoms, causes, and essential safety tips. It also includes steps for immediate care in emergencies to help save lives.

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