Is it heat exhaustion or sunstroke? Doctor on what the difference is
Share this @internewscast.com

Dr Angela Rai, GP at The London General Practice, spoke exclusively to Express.co.uk about heat exhaustion, sunstroke, and the health risks. “Being exposed to too much heat can lead to you feeling generally unwell, lacking in energy and feeling dizzy or sick,” said Dr Rai.

This is typically a sign of heat exhaustion, which may also lead to other unsettling symptoms. Should you notice any signs of heat exhaustion, it’s key to take the right care steps to prevent it turning into sunstroke. “Sunstroke is the most serious form of heat injury and is a medical emergency,” warned Dr Rai.

Heat exhaustion symptoms:

  • Headaches
  • Loss of appetite
  • Nausea
  • Body temperature about 38C
  • Excessive sweating
  • Pale, clammy skin
  • Feeling very thirsty

“Heat exhaustion should be treated quickly to prevent it turning into heatstroke,” said Dr Rai. The person affected needs to be moved to a cooler place out of direct sunlight.

They should then lie down and raise their feet slightly, and sip on a sports drink or oral rehydration sachets.

“Cool their skin with water using a spray or sponge,” added Dr Rai, adding that the person should “feel better” within half hour.

If the symptoms persist, “it is best to seek medical attention and if in doubt call 999”.

Signs of sunstroke:

  • Body temperature above 40C
  • Fast breathing
  • Shortness of breath
  • Feeling unwell after resting and cooling off
  • Feeling confused
  • Having a seizure
  • Loss of consciousness
  • Not being responsive

Sunstroke occurs when the body is unable to regulate the internal temperature.

Dehydration occurs which leads to electrolyte imbalances and, in severe cases, problems with kidney function, cardiac abnormalities and dangerous heart rhythms.

There could even be “damage to brain tissue due to brain haemorrhage or swelling”.

If you are unsure whether you could be suffering from heat exhaustion or, indeed, the beginning of sunstroke, call 111.

Do follow the advice of the emergency response team who might encourage you to visit a hospital.

Share this @internewscast.com
You May Also Like

Health Alert Issued for British Travelers to Turkey Due to Infectious Disease Outbreak

Individuals from the UK traveling to a favored vacation spot need to…

The Unexpected Eating Habit That Might Indicate Early Signs of Bruce Willis’s Dementia

Strange table manners could be more than just quirks, they may be…

My daughter is experiencing rapid and extensive body hair growth. How can I help? Here’s advice from Dr. Ellie.

My teenage daughter, who’s 15, is experiencing rapid and excess body hair…

Miriam Margolyes Discusses Health Concerns and Dispels Rumors About Her ‘Imminent Demise’

Author and actress Miriam Margolyes has addressed rumors about her purported imminent…

New Vaccine Set to Shield ‘500,000 Britons Annually’ Yet Leaves Public with Unanswered Questions

Parents are raising concerns following the government’s announcement of a new vaccination…

Hidden Eating Habit May Indicate Early Symptom of Dementia

When hosting a dinner party, nobody wants to deal with an awkward…

Sleeping with My Dog Led to a Severe Infection, Changing My Life Forever

A man who suffered a bite from his dog contracted the life-threatening…

How I Defied Cancer and Why You Should Help Others Do the Same

While the world is abuzz with the engagement news of Taylor Swift…

45,000 Pounds of Shrimp Recalled Due to Potential Radioactivity Concerns

Two more recalls have been issued for shrimp believed to have been…

Here’s How to Naturally Relieve Painful Bunions and Discover Their Unexpected Causes, As Shared by Expert Podiatrists

Millions suffer from bunions, yet specialists caution that many neglect the issue…

Research highlights common foods that may reduce libido and affect fertility

Hamburgers, potato chips and chocolate milk can be a tempting treat, but…