Heat stroke is a form of hypothermia, where the body temperature becomes abnormally high.

Heat stroke can be a fatal illness if not treated properly, and if suspected Doctors must be contacted. Heat stroke may arise if the body cannot dissipate the heat via radiation or evaporation of sweat e.g. because of dehydration.

Symptoms of heat stroke may include:, high body temperature, the absence of sweating, difficulty breathing, strange behaviour such as hallucination, confusion and agitation, nausea, vomiting, fatigue, weakness, headache, muscle cramps, and dizziness. Sometimes they have been compared to symptoms related to heart attacks.

Heat stroke is very serious and can be fatal. If it is suspect medical assistance should be sought immediately.

To prevent both heat exhaustion and heat stroke should ensure that enough fluid is drink, avoid vigorous physical activity. If you are participating in physical activity ensure that you drink two-four glasses of fluid every hour and sports drinks can aid the replacement of important mineral lost through sweating.

Try and avoid liquids that contain alcohol, or large amounts of sugar, these actually cause you to lose more body fluid. Also avoid very cold drinks, because they can cause stomach cramps. Wear hats and light coloured, loose clothes. Try and avoid spending long periods in the sun and avoid the midday sun . When booking accommodation in hot climates ensure that there is air condition so that you have a cool place to retire to and recuperate.