What to do if someone has sunstroke or severe sunburn?

Sunstroke (Heatstroke) and Severe Sunburn are both serious conditions caused by excessive sun exposure, but they require different immediate actions.

---

1. If Someone Has Sunstroke (Heatstroke)

Heatstroke is a life-threatening emergency where the body overheats and cannot cool itself.

Signs and symptoms

• Body temperature above 40°C (104°F)

• Hot, red, dry or damp skin (sweating may stop)

• Rapid pulse, fast breathing

• Confusion, agitation, slurred speech, seizures

• Loss of consciousness

What to do

1. Call emergency services immediately – heatstroke is a medical emergency.

2. Move the person to a cool place – shaded or air-conditioned.

3. Cool the body quickly:

   • Remove excess clothing.

   • Apply cool water to the skin or sponge with cold wet cloths.

   • Fan the person while misting with water.

   • If possible, place ice packs or cold compresses at the neck, armpits, and groin.

4. If they are alert and able to swallow, give small sips of cool water. Do not give alcohol or caffeine.

5. If unconscious and not breathing normally, start CPR and continue until help arrives.

---

2. If Someone Has Severe Sunburn

Severe sunburn damages the skin and can lead to dehydration and secondary infections.

Signs and symptoms

• Red, swollen, blistered skin

• Severe pain and tenderness

• Nausea, headache, fever, chills (if extensive)

What to do

1. Get out of the sun immediately and move to a cool, shaded place.

2. Cool the skin gently with a cool shower, bath, or damp cloths. Avoid ice or very cold water directly, which can worsen damage.

3. Moisturize with soothing lotions like aloe vera or fragrance-free moisturizers. Avoid petroleum jelly (it traps heat).

4. Hydrate with plenty of cool water to replace fluids.

5. Do not burst blisters – they protect the skin from infection. If blisters break on their own, cover with a clean, non-stick dressing.

6. Pain relief – if needed, over-the-counter medicines like ibuprofen or paracetamol can reduce pain and inflammation.

7. Seek medical help immediately if:

• Burns cover a large area of the body

• Blisters are extensive or oozing pus

• Severe pain, fever, or chills develop

• The person is very young, elderly, or has other health problems