Q: What is the difference between dehydration, heat stroke and heat exhaustion (symptoms, conditions, treatments)?

A: Dehydration occurs when you lose more fluid than you consume and the fluid shortage impacts normal bodily functions.  Dehydration results from illness, exercise, exposure to high temperatures, and not drinking enough water.

Dehydration Symptoms include:

  • Constipation
  • Thirst
  • Headache
  • Lower urine output
  • Dizziness

Heat Exhaustion and Heat Stroke are categorized as heat-related illnesses that are caused by dehydration and prolonged exposure to high temperatures or vigorous activity in hot /humid conditions.  Heat Exhaustion is less severe than Heat Stroke, with Heat Exhaustion leading to Heat Stroke if not treated properly.

Both illnesses occur when the body can no longer regulate its temperature.  During heat exhaustion, the body unsuccessfully attempts to lower the body temperature by sweating.  It is unsuccessful because the environment is too hot.  Heat stroke arises when the body becomes dehydrated and the ability to sweat is diminished or eliminated.  As a result, your body produces more heat than it can release and the body temperature continues to rise.  Heat Stroke is classified as a body temperature above 104˚ F.

Heat Exhaustion Symptoms include:

  • Elevated body temperature
  • Profuse sweating
  • Muscle cramps
  • Rapid Heartbeat

Heat Stroke Symptoms include:

  • Body temperature above 104˚ F
  • No sweating
  • Hyperventilation
  • Abnormal mental state (including coma)

Heat Exhaustion is treated by drinking fluids, moving to a cool location, and discontinuing exercise.Heat Stroke is treated by moving to a cool location, removing excess clothes, applying a cold pack/taking a cold bath and calling 911.  Heat stroke can lead to brain damage or death if not promptly treated.

 

The following websites were used as references in answering the question:
http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/dehydration/DS00561
http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/heat-stroke/DS01025
http://www.webmd.com/fitness-exercise/heat-exhaustion