India, especially the northern states is in the grip of heat waves during peak summer season with mercury soaring above 45 degrees. Both heat exhaustion and heatstroke are caused by exercising or being in a hot, humid environment where the body becomes dehydrated.
However, they show different combinations of symptoms.
Heat exhaustion is usually accompanied by
1. A fever no higher than 104 degrees Fahrenheit
2. Excessive thirst
3. Nausea
4. Fainting
5. Cool and clammy skin
6. Weakness
7. Muscle aches
8. Heavy sweating
9. Slow heartbeat and
10. Dizziness
Heatstroke may develop following heat exhaustion if the condition is not treated. It occurs when the body’s temperature rises and the cooling system stops working. This potentially life-threatening condition is characterized by:
1. Nausea
2. Vomiting
3. Headache
4. Dizziness
5. Fatigue
6. Rapid heart rate
7. Hot and dry skin
8. Shortness of breath
9. Decreased urination and
10. Confusion & fainting