The Relationship Between Heatstroke & Strokes
Is heatstroke really a stroke? As the weather heats up here in Texas, this is a question that many people have asked. However, the answer is no — heatstroke is not a stroke. There are some similarities between the two conditions, leading to some confusion. Learn how to recognize each condition so you can get the emergency care you need.
Strokes
Strokes are a leading cause of death in the United States. A stroke occurs when the blood supply to part of your brain is interrupted or reduced, depriving brain cells of oxygen and nutrients. This can lead to cell death and cause several symptoms, including weakness on one side of the body, difficulty speaking, confusion, and nausea. Women may experience additional symptoms.
Strokes can be caused by various factors, including high blood pressure, atherosclerosis, and diabetes. However, they always affect a patient’s brain, a vital difference between strokes and heatstroke. Acting F.A.S.T to prevent damage or death is crucial.
Heatstroke
Heatstroke occurs when your body becomes too hot, often due to being in a hot environment for too long or exercising heavily in the heat. This may happen alongside extreme dehydration. Symptoms of heatstroke include confusion, excessive sweating, high body temperature, and hallucinations. If left untreated, heatstroke can be fatal.
Read More: Heatstroke vs. Heat Exhaustion
Because of their similar phrasing, many patients have assumed heatstroke is an actual stroke. This myth may have also risen in popularity because heatstrokes can cause some of the same symptoms as strokes, such as weakness on one side of the body and difficulty speaking. However, it is essential to remember that heatstroke and strokes are two different conditions with different causes and treatments.
Emergency Care in Dallas
Regardless of which condition you may be experiencing, you should always seek treatment for a stroke or heatstroke. At Advance ER, our on-site specialist physicians and medical staff work quickly to treat stroke patients, restore blood flow to the brain, and assist with heatstroke symptoms.
For further information about our freestanding emergency room, contact us at Advance ER by calling (214) 494-8222.
