Can heatstroke cause a runny nose?
Jul 16, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Ziqi
Introduction
Under normal circumstances, when suffering from heatstroke, regardless of the severity of the condition, a runny nose typically does not occur, and a runny nose is not a typical symptom of heatstroke. To accurately assess one's health condition, if a runny nose accompanies heatstroke, attention should be paid to whether there are other symptoms such as coughing or sore throat, in order to distinguish whether other health issues are present. Taking proper heatstroke prevention measures in high-temperature environments can reduce the occurrence of heatstroke.
Generally speaking, in cases of heatstroke, regardless of the severity, it is uncommon to experience a runny nose. A runny nose is not a typical symptom of heatstroke. Detailed analysis is as follows:
If the heatstroke is mild, the patient mainly exhibits symptoms such as dizziness, thirst, excessive sweating, and fatigue. The nasal mucosa has not been subjected to specific stimulation, so a runny nose typically does not occur. In such cases, symptoms can gradually subside by moving to a cool place and replenishing fluids.
When a patient develops severe heatstroke, such as heat stroke, the main symptoms include a rapid increase in body temperature, impaired consciousness, and hot, dry skin. The primary dysfunction involves the body's temperature regulation and the central nervous system. The nasal passages do not produce increased secretions due to the heatstroke itself, so a runny nose generally does not occur. If a runny nose does appear at this stage, it is often associated with a concurrent condition such as a cold or other illness.
To accurately assess the body's condition, if a runny nose occurs during heatstroke, attention should be paid to whether there are other symptoms such as coughing or sore throat, to determine if other health issues are present. It is important to take preventive measures against heat in high-temperature environments to reduce the occurrence of heatstroke. If symptoms of heatstroke appear, promptly leave the high-temperature environment and implement cooling measures.
