Heat stroke or heat exhaustion ?
Particularly warm days , which can arise as spring gives way to the dog days of summer , can be both uncomfortable and unhealthy . Such days also can prove deadly . Despite that threat , the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention notes that heat-related illnesses are preventable . Harmful outcomes also are preventable when people learn to distinguish between heat-related illnesses . Heatstroke and heat exhaustion are easily confused , but the two conditions produce noticeably different symptoms . Recognition of that can help anyone stay healthy or help someone in need as the mercury rises this summer .
PREVENTING HEATSTROKE
The CDC notes that drinking plenty of water , cooling off in air conditioned rooms , limiting time outdoors on particularly hot days , taking frequent breaks if you must be outside , and wearing light-colored , loose-fitting clothing and sunscreen with a sun protection factor of 15 or higher are some ways to beat the heat and avoid heatstroke .
Heatstroke is a notable , yet preventable threat . Making an effort to avoid heatstroke while spending time outdoors this summer can ensure the season is safe and fun .
HEATSTROKE SYMPTOMS
• Elevated body temperature , typically 103 F or 104 F or higher
• Hot , red , dry , or damp skin
• Fast , strong pulse
• Headache
• Dizziness
• Nausea
• Confusion
• Loss of consciousness
HEAT EXHAUSTION SYMPTOMS
• Heavy sweating
• Cold , pale and clammy skin
• Fast , weak pulse
• Nausea or vomiting
• Muscle cramps
• Feelings of tiredness or weakness
• Dizziness
• Headache
• Fainting
Anyone experiencing these or other abnormal symptoms on hot days is urged to immediately move to a cool place and seek medical help . The CDC notes that heatstroke is a medical emergency , so individuals who suspect they or someone in their presence is experiencing heatstroke should call 911 immediately . If heat exhaustion is suspected , seek immediate medical help if a person is vomiting , experiencing symptoms that are worsening or sticking around for one hour or longer . More information about heat-related illnesses is available at cdc . gov .
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