Heatstroke is extremely dangerous.

Heat Stroke Animation. Everybody talks about getting a heat stroke or sunstroke when they are outside during the summer. Once it happens, it is vital to take quick action, because the human body can only withstand a core body temperature above 40 degrees Celsius for half an hour before cell damage sets in.

Exertional heat stroke is one of the top three killers of soldiers and athletes in training. Classical heatstroke hits vulnerable people: the elderly, infants, and so forth. Liver failure, blood clot formation in the kidneys and other very serious problems can result.

Symptoms include core temperature above 40 degrees Celsius, increased heart rate, rapid breathing, confused behavior, aggression, loss of consciousness.

As this helpful TED-Ed animated video explains, the first things to do if someone you know collapses from heatstroke are to:

1. Call for help
2. Cool first, transport second
3. Remove any protective athletic gear that may be retaining heat on the victim
4. Immerse the victim in an ice bath or, if that is impossible, cool them down with cold water and soaked towels. 

This is practical knowledge, not something esoteric and difficult to decipher. Acting fast can make the difference between a heat stroke victim recovering completely and quickly, or suffering permanent damage.

From the youtube page:

Have you ever suffered from exertional heat stroke? This condition is caused by intense activity in the heat and is one of the top three killers of athletes and soldiers in training. Douglas J. Casa explains heat stroke's tremendous effects on the human body and details an action plan in case it ever happens to someone you know. 

Lesson by Douglas J. Casa, animation by Cinematic.

The narration is by Michelle Snow. Stay safe!

2020