What is Heat Exhaustion?
Heat exhaustion is an overheating condition where individuals experience heavy sweating and a rapid pulse. Heat exhaustion usually occurs in high humidity, high temperatures and strenuous activity situations. So it isn’t out of the ordinary for athletes and children to experience it.
Symptoms:
- Heavy sweating
- Dizziness/Nausea
- Faintness/Fatigue
- Weak, rapid pulse
- Muscle cramps
- Headache
To help prevent heat exhaustion or recover from it, rest periodically during strenuous activity, take breaks in a cooler place/shade and hydrate yourself with cold water or sports drinks.
What is Heatstroke?
Heatstroke is the next level of heat emergencies. Heatstroke occurs from long exposure or physically exerting yourself in hot temperatures. From a physiological level, heatstroke occurs when your body temperature reaches 40 degrees Celsius, or 104 degrees Fahrenheit.
Symptoms:
- High body temperature
- Confusion, agitation, delirium, slurred speech, irritability
- Hot and dry skin (skin may be slightly moist)
- Nausea and vomiting
- Red skin
- Rapid breathing/ heart rate
- Headache
It is because of these serious symptoms that if you or another person is suspected of experiencing heat stroke, you need to seek medical attention by calling 911 or your local emergency number immediately. While you are waiting for treatment it is essential to get the person inside/under shade, remove any excess clothing, and cool them with whatever is available. Bathing in cold/ ice water has been proven to be the most effective method for lowering a person’s core body temperature.