Medical Daily | 16:57 05-12-2025 | Health
Heatstroke and heat exhaustion are serious health threats that mainly occur during summer. Both these conditions are caused by continuous exposure to high temperatures and can prove to be fatal if not promptly addressed. Spotting the key symptoms of heatstroke and heat exhaustion could play a vital role in ensuring safety for yourself and your near and dear ones.
Heatstroke is the more severe of the two and is characterized by a body temperature of 104 degrees Fahrenheit or higher. In addition, symptoms such as hot, red, dry or damp skin, a throbbing headache, dizziness, nausea, confusion, and losing consciousness can occur. It is a medical emergency and immediate action is required. Cooling the body and seeking professional medical help immediately are paramount.
Heat exhaustion, on the other hand, is less severe but might lead to heatstroke if left unattended. It is usually accompanied by symptoms such as heavy sweating, paleness, muscle cramps, tiredness, weakness, dizziness, headache, fainting, and nausea or vomiting. To prevent it from escalating to heatstroke, it's essential to quit engaging in physical activity, rehydrate the body, move to a cooler environment, loosen clothing, and rest.
Recognizing these symptoms and knowing how to respond to each can prevent the situation from getting worse, protect yourself and your loved ones and even save lives. Understanding the difference between heatstroke and heat exhaustion, recognizing early warning signs, and taking preventive steps during hot weather is important. Staying hydrated, avoiding strenuous physical activities during the hottest parts of the day, dressing in lightweight clothing, and staying in air-conditioned or shaded areas can help mitigate the risks of heat-related diseases. It's important we all do our part to ensure our own safety and that of those around us during the hot summer months.