

Thomas Waters, an emergency physician, explains on the Cleveland Clinic's website. When heat stroke occurs, "The body's mechanisms for dealing with heat are overwhelmed," Dr. Heat stroke is the most severe heat-related condition - "a medical emergency," according to the CDC. If it progresses to heat stroke, body temperature can exceed 104 degrees or even higher. If these symptoms arise, "get out of the sun, try to bring your temperature down and seek medical attention if your symptoms continue to get worse," the Cleveland Clinic advises. With heat exhaustion, a person's body temperature may top 101 degrees Fahrenheit, along with symptoms like heavy sweating cold, pale, clammy skin tiredness or weakness muscle cramps dizziness nausea or vomiting, and more. Know the difference between heat exhaustion and heat stroke Both can cause your body temperature to rise to dangerous levels, dizziness, nausea and fainting or passing out.Ĭhildren and the elderly are especially susceptible to heat exhaustion and should be especially careful.

Heat exhaustion, which occurs when your body can't cool itself through sweating, can progress to heat stroke if left untreated. Heat cramps - painful muscle cramps that can strike when you're exercising in hot weather - can develop when you sweat so much that your body loses essential salts and fluids. "It's most likely to show up in areas where sweat gets trapped, like inside your elbows and behind your knees," the Cleveland Clinic notes. Heat rash is a red, stinging rash that develops when you're hot and sweaty. Heat-related illnesses include a spectrum of issues, including sunburn, heat rash, heat cramps, heat stroke and heat exhaustion. Spot the symptoms of common heat illnesses A broad spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher is your best defense against the sun's harmful rays. Wear sunscreen: Don't skip sunscreen, since "sunburn affects your body's ability to cool down and can make you dehydrated," the CDC notes. "Stay away from very sugary or alcoholic drinks - these actually cause you to lose more body fluid," the organization adds. Water is a good option, or a sports drink can help replenish salt and minerals lost through sweat. Stay hydrated: No matter your activity level, drink plenty of fluids, the CDC says, and don't wait until you're thirsty. "Get into a cool area or into the shade, and rest, especially if you become lightheaded, confused, weak, or faint." "If exertion in the heat makes your heart pound and leaves you gasping for breath, STOP all activity," the CDC's website warns. Take it slow: If you're not used to working or exercising in a hot environment, be sure to pace yourself.
