Summer's here, and so is the risk of heat-related illnesses. While both heat exhaustion and heat stroke are serious, understanding the difference is crucial for quick and effective action. Let's compare and contrast these two conditions.
**Heat Exhaustion:** Think of it as your body overheating but still trying to cope. Symptoms include heavy sweating, weakness, dizziness, nausea, headache, and muscle cramps. Your skin might be cool and clammy.
**Heat Stroke:** This is a medical emergency! Heat stroke occurs when your body's temperature regulation system fails. Symptoms include a high body temperature (104°F or higher), hot, dry skin (though sometimes sweating can still occur), confusion, seizures, and even loss of consciousness.
The biggest difference? Heat stroke is life-threatening and requires immediate medical attention. Heat exhaustion can usually be treated with rest, hydration, and cooling measures. However, if left untreated, heat exhaustion can quickly progress to heat stroke.
Stay safe this summer! Stay hydrated, avoid strenuous activity during peak heat hours, and know the signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke.
