What Are Some Differences Between Heat Stroke and Heat Exhaustion?

While heat stroke and heat exhaustion share certain symptoms, those unique to heat stroke include increased body temperature, delirium, convulsions and a rapid heart rate, according to WebMD. Heat stroke often occurs suddenly and can occur without any preliminary symptoms of heat exhaustion such as fatigue, nausea or dizziness.
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Full Answer

While heat stroke and heat exhaustion are related conditions, heat stroke is significantly more dangerous and can be fatal if not immediately and comprehensively treated, explains WebMD. Symptoms shared by both conditions include nausea, fatigue, confusion, dizziness and fainting.
One of the most effective ways to tell the difference between the two conditions is through the sweat of the affected individual. Individuals suffering from heat exhaustion typically experience drenching sweats accompanied by clammy, cold skin, while individuals suffering from heat stroke sweat less than usual and typically have skin that is flushed, hot and dry to the touch, notes WebMD.


Another important determining factor is the heartbeat of the affected individual, according to WebMD. A rapid heart rate is a symptom of heat stroke, while individuals suffering from heat exhaustion typically exhibit weakened or slowed heartbeats. Both conditions require immediate medical attention, especially if the condition of the affected individual does not improve when placed in a cool area and administered salts and fluids.

Heat Exhaustion

In this Article

• Symptoms of Heat Exhaustion
• Treatment for Heat Exhaustion
• Risk Factors for Heat Exhaustion
• Preventing Heat Exhaustion

Heat exhaustion is a heat-related illness that can occur after you've been exposed to high temperatures, and it often is accompanied by dehydration.
There are two types of heat exhaustion:

• Water depletion. Signs include excessive thirst, weakness, headache, and loss of consciousness.
• Salt depletion. Signs include nausea and vomiting, muscle cramps, and dizziness.

Although heat exhaustion isn't as serious as heat stroke, it isn't something to be taken lightly. Without proper intervention, heat exhaustion can progress to heat stroke, which can damage the brain and other vital organs, and even cause death.

Symptoms of Heat Exhaustion

The most common signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion include:

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• Confusion
• Dark-colored urine (a sign of dehydration)
• Dizziness
• Fainting
• Fatigue
• Headache
• Muscle or abdominal cramps
• Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea
• Pale skin
• Profuse sweating
• Rapid heartbeat

Treatment for Heat Exhaustion

If you, or anyone else, has symptoms of heat exhaustion, it's essential to immediately get out of the heat and rest, preferably in an air-conditioned room. If you can't get inside, try to find the nearest cool and shady place.
Other recommended strategies include:

• Drink plenty of fluid (avoid caffeine and alcohol).
• Remove any tight or unnecessary clothing.
• Take a cool shower, bath, or sponge bath.
• Apply other cooling measures such as fans or ice towels.

If such measures fail to provide relief within 15 minutes, seek emergency medical help, because untreated heat exhaustion can progress to heat stroke.
After you've recovered from heat exhaustion, you'll probably be more sensitive to high temperatures during the following week. So it's best to avoid hot weather and heavy exercise until your doctor tells you that it's safe to resume your normal activities.

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