Seasonal house call · Summer
Sunstroke Berlin
Sunstroke Berlin is a seasonal health occasion for which RAB Arztbesuche provides a licensed physician on a home visit anywhere in Berlin — daily from 6 am to midnight, usually within 60 to 90 minutes.
Sunstroke is caused by direct sun exposure on an unprotected head — typical after long hours in Tiergarten, at Wannsee or at open-air concerts. Unlike heatstroke, core body temperature usually stays normal, but headache, nausea and neck stiffness can be severe. We come to your hotel or home, assess severity and treat appropriately.
Medically reviewed by Susanne Reiche · Last reviewed
Sunstroke in Berlin — from Wannsee to Mauerpark
A classic Berlin summer day draws thousands to the lakes, parks and the Spree. Anyone spending hours in the sun without a head covering risks irritation of the meninges from local overheating — sunstroke. Symptoms typically appear delayed: in the evening or at night, often only after coming home.
We see sunstroke patients on house calls daily 6 am to midnight. On site we check vitals, assess neurological status (meningism test, photosensitivity, consciousness), differentiate heatstroke and subarachnoid haemorrhage and decide whether outpatient treatment suffices. With clear heatstroke signs or uncertain neurology, the patient is admitted.
Sunstroke vs. heatstroke — the difference
Sunstroke: local irritation from direct sun on the head, core body temperature usually normal, symptoms often delayed. Heatstroke: global body overheating with temperature above 40 °C and altered consciousness — emergency, call 112. With every sunstroke we measure temperature to make this distinction cleanly.
When emergency services are needed
If the patient is unresponsive, seizing, has marked neck stiffness with high fever or shows neurological deficits, call 112 immediately. Severe headache with vomiting in children under two also belongs in hospital. Our service complements — it does not replace the emergency service.
How the house call works for sunstroke
You call, we discuss the symptoms — we decide together whether a house call is appropriate or whether the ambulance should come first. Typical arrival time in Berlin: 60 to 90 minutes.
On site: vitals, temperature, neurological exam, differentiation from heatstroke/meningitis/SAH, treatment with head cooling, pain relief, anti-emetics for vomiting, IV fluids if needed. Sick leave and a GOÄ invoice are issued.
Emergency? Dial the emergency number
If unconscious, with severe chest pain, breathlessness or heavy bleeding, dial 112 immediately. Our service complements the emergency services — it does not replace them.
Case profiles
Typical scenarios
Day at Wannsee
Young adults with sunstroke after a day at the lake. We provide outpatient care, advise on sun protection and check the course.
Child after an open-air event
A small child with headache and vomiting in the evening. We examine, rule out meningitis and decide on next steps.
Senior after park walk
Older patient with dizziness and nausea after hours in Tiergarten without a hat. Pre-existing conditions are factored in.
Tourist at the hotel
International guest after a city sightseeing day. We come to the room, treat, document for travel insurance.
Frequently asked questions
When does sunstroke appear?
Often delayed — late afternoon, evening or at night after long direct sun exposure. In children sometimes after just 30 minutes without a head covering.
How do I distinguish sunstroke from meningitis?
Clinically often difficult. High fever, severe neck stiffness, petechiae and poor general condition suggest meningitis — and belong in hospital. When in doubt, we or you call 112.
What medications help?
Painkillers (paracetamol, ibuprofen), anti-emetics for vomiting, cooling measures for the head, adequate fluids. In children we dose by weight.
How can I prevent sunstroke?
Wear a hat, avoid midday sun, drink enough water, be especially consistent with children and seniors. Don't forget scalp sunscreen — particularly with baldness or thin hair.