Heatstroke is a potentially serious condition caused by your body heating up too much, usually because of too much exposure or exercise in high temperatures. The most serious type of heat injury is heat stroke, and it can occur when your body temperature reaches 104 F or more. It is most commonly seen in the summer months. If you have a heat stroke, you need immediate medical attention. Failure to treat heatstroke can result in serious damage to your internal organs, muscles, and brain. The damage gets worse the longer you wait to address it, increasing the risk of a serious problem later on. If you feel like you’re overheating when you’re outdoors during the summer months, don’t hesitate to get a glass of water and sit in the shade. You don’t want to push yourself too hard and end up in the emergency room at the hospital.
1. Flushed skin
If your skin turns beet red, you may have a problem. This is one of the easiest symptoms to spot, and you don’t even need a mirror if you’re outdoors with friends. One of them will definitely point it out to you. As your body temperature increases, your skin may turn red. There are other causes of flushed skin, of course, but if you’re outside in the sun for a prolonged period of time, then it is most likely the heat causing your skin to appear bright red.
Your skin may also feel hot and dry. Dry, hot, flushed skin can indicate heat stroke, the most serious form of heat injury. You might only be experiencing heat exhaustion, though, a less serious form of heat injury. This is a symptom of heat exhaustion, as well. You don’t want to risk it if you have heat stroke. Check with a doctor immediately if you’re experiencing red, flushed skin or feel like you’re overheating.
