Heat Exhaustion vs. Heat Stroke: Understanding the Differences

Sweating keeps the body’s core temperature at around 37°C (98.6°F), but excessive heat, exertion, and humidity can upset this equilibrium and cause serious health risks. With the growing frequency of heat waves, differentiating between heat exhaustion and heat stroke is important because of their varying severity and required treatments. This article covers the differences between heat stroke and heat wave, how long heat-related illnesses last, symptoms, causes, and prevention methods.

What is Heat Exhaustion?

Heat exhaustion is a milder heat-related illness caused by excessive sweating that leads to a loss of water and salt. It indicates the body’s difficulty in coping with heat stress. If symptoms like fatigue and decreased performance are treated promptly, heat exhaustion usually resolves without lasting effects.

What are Heat Exhaustion Symptoms?

Heat exhaustion symptoms can develop suddenly or subtly and may include:

• Heavy sweating and cold, clammy skin: The body sweats to cool down, but the skin may feel cold due to reduced blood flow.
• Weakness, fatigue, and muscle cramps: Caused by electrolyte imbalance due to heavy perspiration.
• Nausea, vomiting, and dizziness: The digestive system slows down along with reduced oxygen supply to the brain.
• Headache and fainting: Common signs of dehydration; fainting may occur due to temporary loss of consciousness.
• Rapid, weak pulse and slightly elevated temperature: The heart works harder, but temperature stays below 40°C (104°F).

What to Do During Heat Exhaustion?

During heat exhaustion, move to a cool, shaded area and rest. Drink water or an electrolyte-rich drink slowly. Remove excess clothing and use cool, damp clothes or fans for comfort. Avoid physical activity until symptoms fade. If vomiting occurs or symptoms last longer than an hour, seek medical help.

What is Heat Stroke?

The body’s incapacity to regulate its internal temperature causes heat stroke, a dangerous and occasionally lethal heat-related illness indicated by a core temperature of 40°C (104°F) or above. Heat stroke, as opposed to heat exhaustion, is a medical emergency that can result in irreparable organ damage, disability, or even death if treatment is not received.

What are Heat Stroke Symptoms?

The most defining characteristic of heat stroke is that the body’s cooling methods have failed. Common symptoms include:

• High temperature: Core temperature of 40°C (104°F) or higher.
• Hot, red, dry skin: Sweating stops or decreases significantly.
• Altered mental state: Confusion, irritability, slurred speech, agitation, seizures, or unconsciousness.
• Rapid pulse and breathing: The heart and lungs struggle due to heat stress.
• Little or no sweating: A key sign of classic heat stroke.

What to Do During a Heat Stroke?

Heat stroke requires immediate medical attention. Call emergency services. Move the individual to a shaded or cool place and begin active cooling using cool water immersion, showers, cool sponges, or wet sheets. Apply ice packs to armpits, groin, and neck to reduce body temperature.

What Are the Major Differences Between Heat Exhaustion and Heat Stroke?

Understanding the differences between heat exhaustion and heat stroke is vital for quick and effective action. Heat exhaustion can usually be managed with self-care, while heat stroke is a life-threatening emergency. During the summer, focus on hydration, awareness, and limiting heat exposure. If you experience any heat-related symptoms, consult a healthcare professional and book a test with Dr Lal PathLabs through the mobile app.

FAQs

How to Prevent Heat-Related Illnesses?

Stay hydrated, wear lightweight clothing, avoid outdoor activities during peak heat hours, and rest frequently in cool or shaded areas.

Can Heat Exhaustion or Heat Stroke Occur Indoors?

Yes. These conditions can occur indoors, especially in poorly ventilated or overheated rooms. Use fans, air conditioning, or keep windows open for better airflow.