Health Complications, Signs and Symptoms of Heatstroke
You may experience shock or go into a coma if you have heatstroke. Loss of ability to control your body temperature can result in:
- Metabolic dysfunction
- Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) [1]
- Brain swelling
- Kidney failure [2]
- Nerve damage
- Liver failure [3]
- Impaired blood flow to the heart and other circulatory problems
The first signs of heat stroke are exhaustion, dizziness, and extreme thirst. They can be controlled with hydration, rest, and cook temperatures. Over time, the symptoms begin to progress and require medical attention. The symptoms of heat stroke include hot, red, dry skin, vomiting, changes in mood or personality, fainting, rapid heart rate, temperature above 104 degrees fahrenheit, slurred speech, appearing drunk, and difficulty focusing, seizures [4], confusion, and Intense, painful headache [5].