Heat exhaustion vs heat stroke while camping: what to do
Heat exhaustion vs heat stroke while camping: heavy sweating and weakness is exhaustion, while confusion and hot dry skin is an emergency. Cool and call.
Karim Belkacem2 min read
Heat exhaustion is heavy sweating, weakness, headache, nausea and cool, clammy skin. Heat stroke is worse and is an emergency. Signs include confusion, hot dry or damp skin, fainting or a very high body temperature. This is general information, and the CDC has official guidance.
What heat exhaustion looks like
- Heavy sweating
- Tiredness and weakness
- Dizziness or headache
- Nausea
- Muscle cramps
- Fast pulse
What to do: move to shade or a cool place. Loosen or remove extra clothing. Sip water slowly. Cool the skin with wet cloths or by fanning. Rest. If the person is not better in about an hour, or vomits, seek medical help.
What heat stroke looks like
- Confusion, odd behavior or slurred speech
- Fainting or seizures
- Very hot skin, which may be dry or damp
- A very high body temperature
- A strong or fast pulse
What to do: call the local emergency number now. Move the person into shade. Cool them quickly by any means you have: wet cloths, water on skin, fanning, ice packs at the neck and armpits. Do not give anything to drink if they are not fully awake.
The main difference
Exhaustion improves with rest, shade and fluids. Stroke does not, and the person's thinking changes. If you are unsure, treat it as heat stroke and call for help.
Prevent it
- Plan for water. See how much water per person per day when camping.
- Hike and work early and late. Rest in the middle of the day.
- Wear light, loose long sleeves and a wide hat.
- Check each other. Heat can make people confused without noticing.
- Know the signs, and know where the nearest help is.
For gear on hot trips, read desert camping gear for hot-weather nights. Always tell someone your route and return time.
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