Heatstroke and sunstroke: differences, symptoms and how to act

During the summer months, high temperatures can seriously affect the body. Spending many hours in the sun, engaging in physical activity during the hottest hours of the day, or not staying properly hydrated can lead to heat-related problems. Two of the most common are sunstroke and heat exhaustion.

Although they are sometimes used interchangeably, they are not exactly the same. Both require attention, but heatstroke is a more serious condition and can become a medical emergency if not treated promptly.

Knowing the differences, identifying the symptoms, and knowing what to do can make all the difference, especially for children, the elderly, athletes, or people with chronic illnesses.

What is sunstroke?

Heatstroke occurs after prolonged exposure to the sun, especially when the head and neck have been exposed for a long time without protection. It can cause headache, dizziness, fatigue, nausea, and a feeling of weakness.

It's often related to spending many hours outdoors without a hat, shade, or adequate hydration. Although it can be uncomfortable and intense, it usually improves with rest, hydration, and gradual cooling if treated promptly.

What is heat stroke?

Heatstroke is a more serious condition. It occurs when the body loses its ability to regulate its temperature and it rises dangerously, potentially exceeding 40°C.

Under normal conditions, the body uses sweat to cool down. However, in cases of extreme heat, dehydration, or intense physical exertion, this mechanism can fail. At that point, body temperature rises, and vital organs can be affected.

Heatstroke should not be taken lightly, as it can cause confusion, loss of consciousness, seizures, and even serious complications if not treated quickly.

Main differences between sunstroke and heatstroke

Sunstroke is usually more related to direct exposure to the sun, while heatstroke can occur both in the sun and in very hot and poorly ventilated environments.

Sunstroke can cause sweating, headache, and exhaustion. Heatstroke, on the other hand, can cause very hot, dry, or abnormally sweated skin, and the person may show confusion, disorientation, or loss of consciousness.

The most important difference is the severity. Sunstroke can have a favorable outcome if treated promptly, but heatstroke requires urgent attention.

Warning signs

It is important to pay attention to signs such as:

• Severe headache

• Dizziness or weakness

• Nausea or vomiting

• Very hot skin

• elevated body temperature

• Confusion or disorientation

• Rapid pulse

• Rapid breathing

• Muscle cramps

• Loss of consciousness

When neurological symptoms such as confusion, fainting, or difficulty responding appear, you must act immediately.

Who is most at risk

Although anyone can suffer from heat-related problems, there are particularly vulnerable groups:

• Toddlers

• Older people

• Pregnant women

• Athletes

• People who work outdoors

• People with cardiovascular, kidney, or respiratory diseases

• People who take certain medications, such as diuretics or antihypertensives

In these cases, prevention must be even stricter.

How to prevent heatstroke

Prevention is the best tool. Some basic measures are:

Avoid the middle of the day

Between 12:00 and 17:00, solar radiation and temperature are usually more intense. It is best to avoid direct sun exposure during these hours.

Hydrate before you feel thirsty

Thirst appears when the body begins to need water. Therefore, it's advisable to drink regularly throughout the day. In cases of excessive sweating, it can also be helpful to replenish electrolytes.

Wear light and breathable clothing

Light-colored, loose-fitting clothes made of natural fabrics help to better regulate body temperature.

Protect your head

Caps, hats and sunglasses are especially important on days of prolonged exposure.

Avoid strenuous exercise in the heat

If you are going to do sports, it is best to do it first thing in the morning or at the end of the day.

What to do in case of sunstroke or heatstroke

If a person starts to feel unwell due to the heat, you must act quickly:

• Take it to a cool, shady or air-conditioned place.

• Remove unnecessary clothing.

• Apply cool cloths to the neck, armpits and groin.

• Offer water in small sips if the person is conscious.

• Avoid alcoholic or very sugary drinks.

• Call emergency services if there is confusion, loss of consciousness, very high fever, or worsening of symptoms.

Never force an unconscious or disoriented person to drink.

Pharmacy products that can help in summer

At the pharmacy you can find useful products to prevent heat-related complications:

• Oral rehydration salts

• Drinks with electrolytes (we recommend Electrolit)

• Sunscreens (we recommend the Anthelios range)

• Refreshing mists (we recommend Avène Thermal Spring Water )

• Digital thermometers (we recommend the Braun brand)

• Mineral supplements for athletes (we recommend the Solgar range)

These products do not replace preventive measures, but they can be a great help during days of intense heat.

Sunstroke and heatstroke are common problems in summer, but they can be prevented with simple habits: hydration, sun protection, avoiding the middle of the day and paying attention to the body's signals.

If you experience severe symptoms or are unsure how to proceed, it's important to seek professional help. At the pharmacy, we can advise you on moisturizing, sun protection, and preventative products so you can enjoy summer safely.