Heat Stroke vs. Heat Exhaustion: Know the Difference — and Act Accordingly!

As I write this from my cottage beside Lake Waccabuc in New York, I share common ground with some 175 million other Americans under heat-related weather alerts today. High heat and humidity cause more than discomfort; they can result in serious, even life-threatening heat-related illness.

Hot summer days open up potential for heat-related illnesses. Credit Raphael Wild — Unsplash

Looking out for heat exhaustion and heat stroke is crucial, as is understanding the differences between these conditions and knowing how to treat them. You should also know that heat exhaustion, while the less dangerous of the two conditions, can lead to deadly heat stroke if ignored. Finally, remember that infants and children up to four years of age, people 65 years of age and older, people who are overweight, and people who are ill or on certain medications are especially vulnerable to heat-related illness according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. So, vigilance is key.

Anyone can experience heat-related illness on hot days. Know the signs and appropriate recovery steps. Credit Courtney Cook — Unsplash

Heat Stroke

Heat stroke is a severe heat-related condition that occurs when the body’s internal temperature rises to dangerous levels, often exceeding 104°F (40°C). This is a medical emergency that requires immediate attention. This fact cannot be overstated. Unlike heat exhaustion, heat stroke affects the body’s central nervous system and can lead to organ failure and damage. The symptoms of heat stroke include:

· Extremely high body temperature

· Rapid heartbeat and breathing

· Confusion, agitation, or altered mental state

· Nausea and vomiting

· Skin that is hot, dry, and flushed

· Unconsciousness or seizures

Hest stroke is a medical emergency! Credit Yassine Khalfalli — Unsplash

Treatment for Heat Stroke

If you suspect someone has heat stroke, act now! Call 911 or your local emergency service immediately, if you can. Don’t wait! Meanwhile, follow these steps while waiting for medical assistance:

· Move the person to a shaded or air-conditioned area.

· Remove excess clothing and fan the individual to cool them down.

· Apply cool, wet cloths or immerse them in a cool bath (avoid using ice-cold water).

· Encourage the person to drink cool water if they are conscious and able to swallow.

· Do not give any medication to reduce the temperature without medical advice.

· Monitor their vital signs until medical help arrives.

Heat Exhaustion

Heat exhaustion, the milder form of heat-related illness, typically occurs when the body loses too much salt and water through excessive sweating. Don’t ignore or try to “tough it out”, though — again, it can progress to heat stroke if not promptly treated.

Symptoms of heat exhaustion include:

· Heavy sweating and weakness

· Pale, clammy skin

· Rapid and shallow breathing

· Dizziness and fainting

· Nausea or vomiting

· Muscle cramps or aching

Gettign the victim to a cool location is paramount in the case of either heat stroke or heat exhaustion. Credit George Chandrinos — Unsplash

Treatment for Heat Exhaustion

If you or anyone else show signs of heat exhaustion, take these steps to aid recovery:

· Move the person to a cooler, shaded or air-conditioned area.

· Loosen or remove tight clothing and encourage them to rest.

· Provide cool, non-alcoholic beverages for rehydration.

· Apply cool, wet cloths to their skin or help them take a cool shower.

· If possible, use a fan or air conditioning to aid in the cooling process.

· Encourage slow sips of an electrolyte-rich sports drink to replenish lost salts.

Lighter-colored, loose-fitting clothes, hydration and scheduling activities for cooler parts of the day can reduce the risk of heat-related illness. Credit Mohau Mannathoko — Unsplash

Prevention is Key

Both heat stroke and heat exhaustion can be prevented by taking these precautions during hot weather:

· Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids, especially water.

· Avoid alcoholic or caffeinated beverages as these can have a dehydrating effect.

· Avoid outdoor activities during peak heat hours (usually between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.).

· Wear loose, light-colored, and breathable clothing.

· Take regular breaks in shaded or air-conditioned areas when working or exercising outside.

· Use sunscreen to protect your skin from the sun’s harmful rays.

· Never leave children or pets unattended in a parked vehicle.

Understanding the differences between heat stroke and heat exhaustion and knowing how to treat them are essential to ensuring the safety, health and well-being of you, your family and your friends during hot weather such as we’ve endured lately. Whether out partying at the beach, playing pick-up wiffle ball in the park or lugging supplies up to your deck for tonight’s barbeque, be watchful. Take a rest break in a cool spot if you’re feeling the signs of heat exhaustion — and seek immediate medical attention if you or someone with you may be experiencing heat stroke.

Know the symptoms of heat stroke and heat exhaustion and the appropriate steps to take. Enjoy your summer in health and safety!