Heat exhaustion and heat stroke are two serious conditions that occur when the body gets too hot. They usually happen during a heatwave or in a hot climate, but can also occur when doing strenuous physical exercise. Heat exhaustion is the less severe of the two and often comes before heat stroke. It happens when the body becomes fatigued from trying to cool itself down for extended periods. Heat stroke is life-threatening and occurs when the body is no longer able to cool itself, causing internal temperatures to rise to dangerous levels.
Characteristics | Values |
---|---|
Heat Exhaustion Occurs When | The body loses excess amounts of water and salt, typically from sweating. |
Heat Stroke Occurs When | The body is unable to control its internal temperature. |
Heat Exhaustion Symptoms | Nausea, light-headedness, fatigue, muscle cramping, dizziness, weakness, headaches, vomiting |
Heat Stroke Symptoms | Headache, confusion, no sweating, rapid heart rate, nausea, vomiting, loss of consciousness, high body temperature (above 104°F/40°C), seizures, coma, death |
Risk Factors | Age (infants, children, older adults), activity level, dehydration, adaptation to heat, obesity, prescription medications, sudden temperature changes, high heat index |
Prevention | Stay hydrated, limit time in the sun, wear light-colored and loose-fitting clothing, take breaks from activity, spend time in cool/air-conditioned places |
What You'll Learn
Heat exhaustion symptoms
Heat exhaustion is a heat-related illness that occurs when your body loses excess amounts of water and salt, typically through dehydration or sweating. It is important to recognise the warning signs of heat exhaustion and act on them as soon as possible.
The early warning signs of heat exhaustion include nausea, light-headedness, fatigue, muscle cramping, dizziness, and headache. Other symptoms include a weak but faster pulse or heart rate, pale, cold, and clammy skin, and heavy sweating. If you begin experiencing these symptoms, try to find a cooler location, remove a layer of clothing, or turn on air conditioning if possible. Drink water or a sports drink to help rehydrate yourself.
If you are experiencing heat exhaustion, your body temperature may be above 100°F (38°C). It is important to take steps to lower your body temperature, such as moving to an air-conditioned place, taking a cold shower, or using cold compresses. You should also remove any tight or extra clothing layers. Seek medical attention if your symptoms worsen or last longer than an hour.
Left untreated, heat exhaustion can lead to heat stroke, a serious medical emergency. Heat exhaustion can progress to heat stroke if not treated promptly. Therefore, it is crucial to be aware of the symptoms of heat exhaustion and take preventive measures to keep yourself cool and hydrated, especially during hot weather.
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Heat stroke symptoms
Heat stroke is a serious medical emergency that requires immediate medical attention. Unlike heat exhaustion, heat stroke occurs when the body is unable to control its internal temperature. Knowing the signs and symptoms of heat stroke could save your or someone else's life.
- A throbbing headache
- Confusion
- Nausea
- Dizziness
- Body temperature of 103°F (39.4°C) or higher
- Hot, red, dry, or damp skin
- Rapid and strong pulse or heart rate
- Fainting
- Loss of consciousness
If you or someone you know is experiencing any of these symptoms, call 911 or get the victim to a hospital immediately. Move the victim to a cooler, preferably air-conditioned, environment. Reduce their body temperature with cool cloths or a cool bath. Do not give them fluids.
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Heat stroke prevention
Heat stroke is a serious medical emergency that requires immediate attention. Here are some preventive measures to avoid heat stroke:
- Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids, especially water. The body loses fluids through sweating, so drinking water will help prevent dehydration. Aim for two to four cups of water every hour if you're spending time outdoors in hot weather.
- Avoid dehydrating drinks: Alcohol and caffeinated beverages can contribute to dehydration, so it's best to avoid them when engaging in strenuous activities or when it's hot.
- Choose appropriate clothing: Wear light-coloured, loose, and lightweight clothing. Lighter colours reflect sunlight better and help keep you cool. Loose-fitting garments allow air to circulate and promote cooling.
- Stay cool: When possible, opt for indoor activities in temperature-controlled environments, especially during the hottest parts of the day. If you must be outdoors, seek shade, and use cooling methods such as cold showers, cold compresses, or misting yourself with a spray bottle.
- Take breaks: If you're working or exercising in the heat, take frequent breaks to give your body a chance to cool down.
- Gradual exposure: Gradually increase your time spent outdoors in hot weather to allow your body to adjust to the heat.
- Protect yourself from the sun: Wear a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen. Use an umbrella for additional shade.
- Be mindful of vulnerable individuals: Keep an eye on children, older adults, and anyone with a medical condition or taking certain medications. They are more susceptible to heat-related illnesses and may need help recognising and responding to heat stroke symptoms.
- Plan ahead: When planning outdoor activities, consider the weather conditions and take the necessary precautions.
- Monitor your body: Pay attention to any signs or symptoms of heat exhaustion or heat stroke. If you experience any warning signs, such as dizziness, nausea, or muscle cramps, take immediate action to cool down and seek medical attention if needed.
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Heat stroke treatment
Heat stroke is a life-threatening medical emergency and requires immediate treatment. If you suspect someone is experiencing heat stroke, call the emergency services immediately. While waiting for the emergency services to arrive, there are several steps you can take to help lower the person's body temperature.
Firstly, move the person to a cooler place, ideally with air conditioning. If this is not possible, move them to a shaded or cool area. You should then attempt to cool the person down by applying cold, wet cloths or towels to their skin, and then applying ice packs. If possible, you can also place them in a bath of cold ice water or have them take a cold shower. These cooling methods should be continued for 20 minutes or until the person feels better or the emergency services arrive.
It is important not to give the person any fluids and to watch for changes in their condition, including their breathing and responsiveness. If the person is shivering from the cold, do not give them medication to stop the shivering as this may increase their body temperature.
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Risk factors
Heat exhaustion and heat stroke are serious heat-related illnesses that can be life-threatening if left untreated. While heat exhaustion does not usually require emergency medical attention, heat stroke is a medical emergency. Both conditions are caused by the body's inability to cool itself down, often due to a combination of high temperatures, high humidity, and strenuous physical activity.
Age
Infants, young children, and adults over 65 are at an increased risk of heat exhaustion and heat stroke. This is because these age groups may have a harder time regulating their body temperature and can be more susceptible to heat-related illnesses. Young children and infants are especially vulnerable as they may not be able to communicate their discomfort and can progress quickly from heat exhaustion to heat stroke.
Health Conditions
Certain pre-existing health conditions can increase the risk of heat exhaustion and heat stroke. These include heart disease, lung disease, kidney disease, obesity, being underweight, high blood pressure, diabetes, mental illness, sickle cell trait, and alcoholism. People with these conditions should be particularly cautious in hot weather and take the necessary precautions to stay cool and hydrated.
Medications
Some medications can affect the body's ability to regulate temperature and hydration levels. These include diuretics, sedatives, tranquilizers, stimulants, heart and blood pressure medications, and psychiatric medications. If you are taking any of these medications, consult your doctor about any additional precautions you should take in hot weather.
Alcohol Use
Alcohol consumption can contribute to heat exhaustion as it causes increased urination and negatively affects the body's fluid balance. Drinking alcohol in hot weather, especially while exercising or working outdoors, can increase the risk of heat exhaustion and heat stroke.
Sudden Temperature Changes
Moving from a cold to a hot climate, such as during travel or the arrival of a heat wave, can increase the risk of heat exhaustion and heat stroke. This is because the body needs time to adjust to higher temperatures. The "heat island effect" in urban areas can also make it harder for people to cool off during prolonged heat waves.
Dehydration
Dehydration is a major risk factor for heat exhaustion and heat stroke. In hot and humid weather, the body loses fluids and essential minerals through sweating, and if these fluids are not adequately replaced, it can lead to heat-related illnesses. Drinking enough water or sports drinks can help prevent dehydration and maintain electrolyte balance.
Activity Level
People who work or exercise outdoors in hot weather are more likely to develop heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Strenuous physical activity in high temperatures can cause the body to overheat, especially if proper hydration and cooling measures are not taken.
It is important to be aware of these risk factors and take the necessary precautions to prevent heat exhaustion and heat stroke, especially during hot and humid weather. Staying hydrated, wearing appropriate clothing, avoiding excessive sun exposure, and taking breaks in cool environments can help reduce the risk of these serious heat-related illnesses.
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