Heat Exhaustion vs. Heat Stroke: What to Know

As summer temperatures rise in Madison, so does the risk of heat-related illnesses. Every year, Madison EMS responds to numerous heat emergencies that could have been prevented with proper knowledge and precautions. Understanding the difference between heat exhaustion and heat stroke—and knowing how to respond to each—can save lives during the hot, humid summer months along Connecticut’s shoreline.

Why Humidity Matters on the Shoreline

Living along Long Island Sound means we experience not just high temperatures but also significant humidity during summer months. This combination creates a dangerous environment for heat-related illnesses because:

• High humidity prevents sweat from evaporating efficiently from your skin
• When sweat can’t evaporate, your body loses its primary cooling mechanism
• The “feels like” temperature in humid conditions can be significantly higher than the actual air temperature
• The body’s core temperature can rise rapidly in humid conditions, even if you’re in the shade

Understanding Heat Exhaustion

Heat exhaustion is a serious condition that requires immediate attention but is less severe than heat stroke. It typically develops after exposure to high temperatures and inadequate fluid replacement.

Symptoms of Heat Exhaustion:

• Heavy sweating
• Cool, pale, clammy skin
• Fast, weak pulse
• Nausea or vomiting
• Muscle cramps
• Tiredness or weakness
• Dizziness
• Headache
• Fainting

First Aid for Heat Exhaustion:

1. Move to a cool place (preferably air-conditioned)
2. Loosen clothing
3. Apply cool, wet cloths to the body or take a cool bath
4. Sip water or a sports drink with electrolytes
5. Seek medical attention if symptoms worsen or last longer than one hour

Recognizing Heat Stroke—A Medical Emergency

Heat stroke is a severe and potentially life-threatening condition that occurs when the body’s temperature regulation system fails and body temperature rises to 103°F or higher. Heat stroke requires immediate emergency medical treatment.

Symptoms of Heat Stroke:

• High body temperature (103°F or higher)
• Hot, red, dry, or damp skin
• Fast, strong pulse
• Headache
• Dizziness
• Nausea
• Confusion
• Altered mental status or loss of consciousness
• Seizures

What to Do for Heat Stroke:

1. Call 911 immediately—this is a medical emergency
2. Move the person to a cooler place
3. Help lower the person’s temperature with cool cloths or a cool bath
4. Do NOT give the person anything to drink if they are unconscious or confused

How Madison EMS Responds to Heat Emergencies

During summer months, Madison EMS responds to numerous heat-related emergencies, particularly involving:

• Beachgoers who spend long days in the sun without adequate hydration or cooling breaks
• Individuals exercising outdoors without proper precautions
• Outdoor workers exposed to high temperatures for extended periods

Our emergency response includes:

• Two Advanced Life Support (ALS) ambulances staffed 24/7
• Paramedics trained to provide IV fluids for rapid rehydration
• Active cooling measures inside climate-controlled ambulances
• 12-lead ECG assessment to evaluate cardiac conditions that may be exacerbated by heat
• Rapid transport to emergency departments for severe cases

High-Risk Groups in Madison

Elderly Residents

Older adults don’t adjust as well to sudden temperature changes and are more likely to have medical conditions or take medications that affect the body’s ability to regulate temperature or sweat.

Outdoor Workers

Landscapers, construction workers, and other outdoor professionals face extended exposure to high temperatures and humidity, often while performing physical labor.

Athletes and Beach Visitors

Both competitive athletes and recreational beachgoers can quickly become dehydrated, especially when exercising vigorously or spending hours in direct sunlight along Madison’s shoreline.

Community Resources

During periods of extreme heat, the Town of Madison makes cooling centers available to the public, typically including:

• The Senior Center
• Town Campus buildings

These locations provide air-conditioned spaces where residents can find relief from the heat, particularly for those without air conditioning at home.

Prevention: Your Best Defense

Stay Hydrated

• Drink more water than usual
• Don’t wait until you’re thirsty to drink
• Avoid alcohol and sugary drinks, which can cause dehydration
• Consider sports drinks to replace lost electrolytes if you’re sweating heavily

Stay Cool

• Schedule outdoor activities during cooler morning or evening hours
• Take frequent breaks in shaded or air-conditioned areas
• Wear lightweight, light-colored, loose-fitting clothing
• Use sunscreen—sunburn affects your body’s ability to cool down
• Take cool showers or baths

Stay Informed

• Check local news for extreme heat alerts
• Learn the signs of heat-related illness
• Keep an eye on those most at risk
• Never leave children or pets in cars, even with windows cracked

Quick Reference Guide: Heat Illness Response

Condition	Key Symptoms	Appropriate Response
Heat Exhaustion	Heavy sweating, cool/clammy skin, weakness, nausea, dizziness	Move to cool place, sip water, apply cool cloths, rest
Heat Stroke	High temperature (103°F+), hot/red skin, confusion, possible unconsciousness	Call 911, move to cooler place, cool with water or cold cloths

Remember: Heat stroke is a medical emergency that can lead to permanent disability or death if not treated promptly. When in doubt, call 911.

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The Madison EMS team is here to help during heat-related emergencies, but we’d prefer to see our community members enjoying summer safely. By understanding the differences between heat exhaustion and heat stroke—and taking proper precautions—you can protect yourself and your loved ones during the hottest days of the year.

For more information about heat-related illnesses, visit the CDC Heat Safety Website.