Symptoms of a Heat Stroke

By The Husband and Wife Law Team on November 1, 2021

If you are an avid hiker, biker, or runner in Arizona, you know just how hot our state can become and the impact of recent heatwaves. Residents and tourists are always advised to keep hydrated, wear sunscreen, and wear cool clothing to keep safe, but it is also important to know when you have overexerted yourself. Alongside dehydration, heat strokes are a serious medical condition you can develop while out in the sun, and everyone should be aware of the dangers.

What Is a Heat Stroke?

A heat stroke is a type of injury that occurs when the body becomes too hot to cool itself. In high temperatures, our bodies will produce sweat to cool down, but there is a limit. If your body’s temperature rises up to 104 F, it can lose the ability to cool down and produce sweat. Your body’s temperature may rise drastically in 10 to 15 minutes, leading to serious brain damage, internal injuries, and death.

How To Know if You Are Experiencing a Heat Stroke?

Heat strokes are medical emergencies, and anyone who is out in the sun for long periods should be aware of the signs. According to the CDC, signs of a heat stroke include:

• Temperature of 103 F
• Red, hot, and dry skin
• Lack of sweating
• Rapid heart rate
• Throbbing headache
• Dizziness
• Upset stomach and nausea
• Confusion and disorientation
• Fainting

Getting Treatment for a Heat Stroke

If you or someone near you is experiencing any of the above symptoms, you should immediately move to a shaded area and contact 911. While waiting for emergency services, you should try to lower you or the other person’s temperature by gently fanning them, pouring cool (but not cold) water on their face and head, and remove any hot or heavy clothing. If you are at home, a cool bath or garden hose can help lower a heat stroke victim’s temperature until paramedics arrive.

Putting Your Safety First

The Husband and Wife Law Team are strong advocates for accident victims throughout Phoenix, but we also want everyone to keep safe. We are here to share important safety information so our neighbors and their families can avoid serious injuries. We encourage everyone to read up on the dangers of heat stroke and learn how to protect themselves during Arizona’s many heatwaves.

However, if you were injured by a negligent party, we can also provide the legal guidance you need to get compensation. Heat strokes are common on construction sites and industrial jobs where employers do not provide basic safety measures. Employees should be warned of the dangers of high temperatures of job sites, provide protective gear like hats and sunscreen, and properly ventilate work areas to help lower temperatures. Failure to take these precautions can cause serious injuries, including brain damage and death.

If you were injured in a construction accident that was not your fault, reach out to us at (602) 267-1280 to speak to a Phoenix personal injury attorney. We will explain your rights to compensation in a free consultation.