Difference between heat exhaustion and heatstroke — urgent symptoms you need to know

Difference between heat exhaustion and heatstroke — urgent symptoms you need to know As temperatures soar during the UK heatwave, learn to recognise the warning signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heatstroke - and when to seek urgent medical help A fierce heatwave is sweeping across the UK this week. For only the second time in history, a Met Office red warning for extreme heat is in place for parts of England and Wales. As temperatures edge towards 40C, it's crucial to understand the distinction between heat exhaustion and heatstroke. The consequences are very real. On Wednesday, the London Ambulance Service recorded its highest-ever number of life-threatening emergencies "driven by the extreme heat," reports the Express. Part of staying safe is recognising the warning signs - and differences - between these two conditions. Difference between heat exhaustion and heatstroke Both conditions are forms of heat-related illness. The most severe of the two is heatstroke, which can be potentially life-threatening. Anybody can fall victim to heat illness during hot weather, though certain groups are particularly vulnerable, including: - Older people - Babies - Young children - People with long-term health conditions like diabetes or heart problems. Here's how to spot the signs and what to do should you or someone nearby be affected. What is heatstroke? Heatstroke occurs when the body's ability to regulate its temperature is overwhelmed by heat, leading to reduced blood flow and damage to vital organs. The NHS is urging anyone displaying symptoms of heatstroke to seek urgent medical attention. Heatstroke symptoms can include: - High body temperature or fever – usually more than 40C - Fainting or losing consciousness - A seizure or fit - Severe difficulty breathing – for example, struggling to speak without pausing, gasping or choking - Confusion - Lack of coordination - Skin that’s cold to the touch, even with a high body temperature What is heat exhaustion? Heat exhaustion occurs when your body overheats — essentially when it loses excessive quantities of water and salt, typically through perspiration. Fatigue, muscle cramps and heat rash are amongst the telltale signs of the condition. The symptoms are generally identical in both children and adults, although youngsters may also display unusual behaviour. NHS Inform has outlined the following symptoms of heat exhaustion: - Tiredness - Weakness - Feeling faint - Headache - Muscle cramps - Feeling or being sick - Heavy sweating - Feeling very thirsty - Heat rash