Sunstroke / Heat Stroke

What is Sunstroke?

Sunstroke or Heat Stroke occurs when the body temperature rises dangerously due to excessive heat exposure and dehydration. It is a serious medical emergency that can affect the brain, heart, kidneys, and muscles.

Main Causes

Direct Sun Exposure

Long exposure to sunlight during hot afternoons.

Major Cause

Dehydration

Not drinking enough water and electrolytes.

Heavy Work

Physical activity in hot environments increases risk.

Improper Clothing

Tight or dark clothes trap body heat.

Symptoms

High body temperature
Dizziness and headache
Extreme thirst
Muscle cramps
Fast heartbeat
Nausea or vomiting
Confusion and fainting
Hot dry skin or excessive sweating

Immediate First Aid

Do Immediately	Avoid
Move to cool shaded place	Do not ignore symptoms
Give cool water slowly	Do not give alcohol
Use wet cloth on body	Do not force heavy food
Use fan or cool air	Do not leave patient alone
Call doctor if severe or take them to him	Do not give fluids if unconscious

Suitable Foods

Cooling Fruits

Watermelon, Muskmelon, Orange, Sweet Lime, Banana, Grapes.

Hydrating Foods

Cucumber, Tomato, Bottle Gourd, Pumpkin, Coconut.

Light Meals

Curd Rice, Idli, Khichdi, Soft Rice, Vegetable Soup.

Avoid Heavy Foods

Oily foods, spicy curries, deep fried snacks, excess sweets.

Best Liquids & Juices

Coconut Water

Natural electrolytes

ORS

Restores salts & hydration

Buttermilk

Cools body temperature

Lemon Water

Refreshing hydration

Watermelon Juice

Water-rich summer drink

Pomegranate Juice

Boosts energy

Dos & Don'ts

Dos

Drink water frequently
Wear cotton clothes
Use umbrella/cap
Eat light meals
Take shade breaks

Don'ts

Avoid afternoon heat
No alcohol
Avoid heavy exercise
Do not skip hydration
Avoid oily foods

Suggested Daily Routine

Morning

Drink water, eat fruits, complete outdoor work early.

Afternoon

Stay indoors, drink fluids regularly, eat light lunch.

Evening

Take fruit snacks and light activities only.

Night

Eat light dinner and sleep in ventilated room.

Prevention Methods

Drink 3–4 liters water daily
Wear loose light-colored clothes
Carry water bottle outdoors
Avoid peak sun hours 11 AM – 4 PM
Use sunscreen and cap
Take regular shade breaks
Use ORS during heavy sweating
Keep rooms ventilated

Who is at Higher Risk?

Children

Children dehydrate quickly during hot weather.

Elderly People

Older adults are more sensitive to heat exposure.

Outdoor Workers

Construction workers and farmers face higher heat exposure.

Important Quick Tips

Check urine color regularly during summer.

11 AM – 4 PM is the highest risk period.

Sun Stroke - Prevention & Cure