What's the difference between Heat Exhaustion & Heat Stroke?

Heat Exhaustion & heat stroke are a great concern especially over the summer months as the temperatures are on the rise, especially over the next few days in Brisbane. The most at risk groups are our little ones and those who are older. Did you know that once you are over 40 years in age that your body does not recognize you are dehydrated as early as it used to, therefore if you are thirsty you will require more fluids (water) than you realize to re-hydrate. 

Most of us when we get hot start to sweat, this is the normal mechanism to cool the bodies core temperature, but when this process is not functioning properly, that evaporation technique is not always adequate.

Heat Exhaustion.

Often heat exhaustion can begin with thirst and a headache leading onto nausea, dizziness which can lead to collapse. Just feeling lousy, unwell and maybe even discomfort.The body temperature is less than 40 deg C , will appear red & still be sweating in an attempt to cool down. 

Heat Stroke.

This is worse than heat exhaustion as the core body temperature is rising and is above 40 deg C now, which is life threatening as now the bodies organs are being affected and it can cause unconsciousness and death. 

Read More