What is a major sign of heat stroke?

A major sign of heat stroke is red, hot, dry skin. In heat stroke, the body's temperature regulation has failed, leading to an inability to sweat, which is essential for cooling the body. The skin becomes hot and dry because the sweat glands are not functioning effectively as the body overheats.

This sign is crucial for identifying heat stroke, as it differentiates it from other heat-related illnesses like heat exhaustion, where heavy sweating and cool, clammy skin are more prominent. Recognizing the symptoms of heat stroke is vital because it indicates a medical emergency that requires immediate intervention to prevent serious complications or death.