The Difference Between Heat Exhaustion and Heat Stroke

Summertime typically ushers in a sense of ease and lightness. After all, the time between Memorial Day and Labor Day is often bustling with outdoor gatherings, celebrations, vacations, and overall fun in the sun.

However, given the hot temperatures, additional sun exposure, and greater hydration needs, there are potential health risks associated with this season. Two of the most prevalent conditions associated with summer are heat exhaustion and heat stroke.

In this article, we’ll learn how to differentiate one from the other and how to protect yourself in both instances.

Simply put, heat exhaustion is a moderate form of heat-related illness whereas heat stroke can be life-threatening.

Also, heat stroke typically results when heat exhaustion goes untreated.

People suffer from heat exhaustion when the environmental temperature and your own body temperature generate excess internal heat.

Weather conditions aside, other factors that may lead to heat exhaustion include:

• intense physical activity
  
• dressing in heat-trapping clothing or layers
• dehydration 
• alcohol or drug use

According to Mayo Clinic, the most notable symptoms and warning signs of heat exhaustion include:

• excessive sweating
• cool sweat, paleness, and/or goosebumps
• dizziness 
• headache
• faintness, fatigue, and exhaustion
• nausea
• a rapid pulse 

If heat exhaustion goes untreated and your body is unable to cool itself off in the way that it should, your risk of getting heat stroke increases.

It’s important to reiterate that heat stroke is a serious medical condition that may even be life-threatening. For that reason, it’s essential to notice the signs of heat stroke so you can seek medical treatment immediately.

The CDC outlines symptoms of heat stroke as follows:

• hot, red, flushed, dry, or damp skin
• muscle cramps
• dizziness 
• headache
• confusion
• nausea and vomiting
• loss of consciousness 
• a body temperature of 103°F or greater
• a rapid pulse and rate of breathing

As we can see, there are several overlapping symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke. However, you’ll notice that heat stroke will typically result in confused mental state, disorientation, or loss of consciousness, including coma or seizure.

All things considered, of course, neither condition is favorable. For that reason, take care to put sun safety and hot weather tips into play.

Here are a few ways to in which you can proactively prevent heat-related illness:

•  wear light, loose clothing
• avoid excess sun and heat exposure, especially in the middle of the day
• cool down in the shade or indoors (with a fan or air conditioning)
• stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water and eating hydrating foods
• alternate alcoholic beverages with water

Note: Since heat stroke is a severe medical issue, call 911 if you or someone is experiencing it. In the meantime, remove excess clothing, get inside, and cool down with a fan, air conditioning, and/or a cold compress. People who experience heat stroke should wait until medical professionals arrive before drinking anything.