Date: 07/23/2026 - GOOD TO KNOW
When the body says no: how to recognize heat stroke before it surprises you
Heat stroke does not happen overnight – it develops in stages, from muscle cramps to loss of consciousness. Learn to recognize the warning signs and cool down before it’s too late.
The impact of weather on our well-being is especially strong during hot days. When the temperature rises above 22 degrees, cooling processes in our body are activated. We start to sweat, and to maintain a lower temperature, the body uses large amounts of fluids. We don’t always have enough of these, so a lack of water strains other organs and systems, with the blood vessels and nerves suffering the most.
What are the signs of heat stroke?
Heat overload does not appear suddenly. At first, it shows as muscle cramps, unusual heartbeat, nausea, and fatigue.
The second stage is recognized by dizziness, headache, and floaters in the eyes (your vision is disturbed by moving circles).
The third stage is already a very serious sign of heat stroke. There are pronounced heart disturbances, lowered blood pressure, and loss of consciousness.
In the extreme case, heat stroke is recognized by coma, fatal arrhythmia, and cardiac arrest.
How to cool down?
You can prevent heat stroke with plenty of fluids. It is recommended to consume drinks rich in electrolytes, salty water is also recommended, but vegetable or fruit juices are even better.
If you find a refrigerator nearby, put something cold on your forehead, the back of your neck, under your armpits, or on your abdomen. These are points strongly supplied with blood, so the cooling process is faster.
You can calculate below how much fluid is optimal to drink throughout the day:
Information on this website is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice.
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Recognize heat stroke symptoms
Signs of heat stroke
How to prevent heat stroke
Cooling down from heat stroke
Heat stroke stages and warning signs