As the heatwave reaches its peak today, people will be tempted to make the most of the sunshine, but it’s important to know the difference between heat stroke and heat exhaustion.

An amber warning for extreme heat continues to be in place for today, with many areas set to see temperatures reach as high as 39c.

It’s important to know the difference between heat exhaustion and heat stroke as one needs to be treated as an emergency.

Read more: Weather: Newton Aycliffe set to be hottest part of North East

What is heat exhaustion?

Heat exhaustion is not usually serious if you can cool down within 30 minutes, however, it can soon develop into heat stroke, which needs to be treated as an emergency.

The symptoms of heat exhaustion, according to the NHS are:

  • A headache
  • Dizziness and confusion
  • Loss of appetite and feeling sick
  • Excessive sweating and pale, clammy skin
  • Crams in the arms, legs and stomach
  • Fast breathing or pulse
  • A high temperature of 38c or above
  • Being very thirsty

The symptoms are often the same in adults and children, if someone is showing signs of heat exhaustion, they need to be cooled down.

Read more: North East heatwave: Full list of shops and businesses shutting today

What is heatstroke?

However, if you are not able to cool someone down quickly enough they might be suffering from heatstroke.

Symptoms for heatstroke include:

  • Fast breathing or shortness of breath
  • A fit
  • Loss of consciousness
  • Not responsive

Heatstroke can be very serious if not treated quickly.

What can I do to prevent both heat exhaustion and heatstroke?

To prevent either heat exhaustion or heat stroke, you can:

  • Drink plenty of cold drinks, especially when exercising
  • Take cool baths or showers
  • Wear light-coloured, loose clothing
  • Sprinkle water over skin or clothes
  • Avoid the sun between 11am and 3pm
  • Avoid excess alcohol
  • Avoid extreme exercise

Read more: H&M closes store at Prince Bishops Shopping Centre in Durham

Children and elderly people with long-term health conditions are more at risk of heat exhaustion or heat stroke.

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