But even people who do not expose themselves to the sun may suffer from heatstroke. People on tranqilizers, antihistamines, or psychiatric medications are at greater risk for heatstroke and should avoid exposing themselves to high temperatures for any length of time. In the early stages, heatstroke will produce headache, dizziness, and fatigue. The body does not sweat, and the skin becomes hot, red, and dry. These drastic changes in the body can result in convulsions, unconsciousness, and even death.
Body temperature needs to be brought down immediately to avoid the risk of brain damage.
Heatstroke is an emergency condition, requiring immediate medical care. Sponge the victim with cool water, or wrap him in a cool wet sheet. But do not delay calling for medical care, for mere first aid efforts are not likely to prevent the more serious consequences of heatstroke. A heatstroke victim may require several days of hospitalization. Fluids and body salts will probably be replaced intravenously, and careful monitoring of body temperature will make it possible to regulate it more accurately until the victim's body regains the ability to regulate its own temperature.