Skip to main content

Know the Signs: Heat Exhaustion vs Heat Stroke

Share:

We can already tell that this summer is going to be a steamy one. 🥵

As we enjoy the warm weather as much as possible, we also need to be mindful of the risks that can come with being exposed to the heat. Recognizing the signs of heat illnesses is the first step toward staying safe this summer. 

Heat is harder on some people. Watch out for (1-3,6,9-11): 

  • Infants and young kids as their bodies don’t regulate heat well. 
  • Older adults – especially those living with illness, taking medication, or having mobility issues. 
  • Pregnant people.
  • People living with chronic conditions (like breathing difficulties, heart problems, psychiatric illnesses).
  • People working or spending lots of time outside. 
  • People taking medication that can increase their risk of dehydration (i.e. reduce thirst cues, increase urination), affect sweating, or increase their body temperature. 

*Ask your pharmacist if they could impact your heat sensitivity.*

Alcohol and drug use can also make heat much more dangerous by impairing your body’s ability to cool down, reduce your thirst, and mask overheating (7). 

This summer, stay cool, stay safe. ☀️

Sources
  1. Heat exhaustion and heatstroke | NHS
  2. Staying Healthy in the Heat | Government of Canada – Health Canada | 2024
  3. 6 Medications That Put You at Risk for Heat Stroke | Harford HealthCare | July 2024
  4. Heat Cramps, Exhaustion, Stroke | National Weather Service – National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)
  5. Extreme heat events: Overview | Government of Canada
  6. Heatwave: how to cope in hot weather | NHS
  7. Heat-Related Illnesses And How To Avoid Them | Maricopa County, AZ
  8. During a Heat Wave | National Weather Service – National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)
  9. Heat Safety Tips and Resources | National Weather Service – National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)
  10. Summer heat waves and the medications that increase your risk — Do I still need this medication? Is deprescribing for you? | Canadian Medication Appropriateness and Deprescribing Network
  11. Heat and Medications – Guidance for Clinicians | CDC 

Share our original Bluesky Post!