Being outdoors in the warm summer sun is usually something to look forward to. However, staying safe and healthy while you enjoy the outdoors is always something to keep in mind. Not drinking enough water coupled with a long hike or excess outdoor play on a scorching day can land you in deep trouble. Knowing the difference between heat exhaustion and heat stroke, as well as how to treat them, can save the day.
Heat exhaustion
While the human body has the ability to cool itself through sweating, your body can actually become too hot for this process to work properly. Heat exhaustion is usually the first sign something is wrong. Symptoms include excessive sweating, lightheadedness, weakness, headache, vomiting, and heat cramps. Heat cramps usually strike during or soon after heavy physical activity, and are most often linked to dehydration.
If symptoms are present, stop physical activity and move indoors if possible. If going inside is not an option, seek shade to help cool the sufferer. Provide fluids immediately. Treatment for heat exhaustion should be administered quickly, before the condition worsens and becomes heat stroke.
Heat Stroke
Also called heat prostration, sunstroke, or hyperthermia, heat stroke can be fatal if not caught and treated early. It’s caused by overheating during exposure to extreme temperatures. Symptoms include elevated body temperature, dizziness, nausea, headache, weakness, and fainting. This level of heat related illness is a medical emergency so don’t wait to get the victim help.
The key to telling the difference between heat exhaustion and heat stroke is that, with the latter, the victim will stop sweating despite being very hot. A body temperature above 104 F (40 C) is considered severe.
Infants and the elderly are at the highest risk, as well as athletes and people working outside in the hot sun. Seek immediate medical attention if you think you or your companion are suffering from heat stroke.
Stay hydrated whenever working or playing outdoors, and take frequent breaks. Being aware of the temperature and conditions, and reacting accordingly, can keep outdoor activities safe and fun for everyone.
Related articles: How to Identify Heat Exhaustion, Tips to Keep Cool in the Summer Heat
Featured Image from Scott Goodwill/Unsplash
