Heatstroke vs. Heat Exhaustion: How to Spot the Difference and Act Fast

Every summer, when the mercury pushes past 35°C, hospitals across Victoria see a spike in heat-related illnesses.
It’s not just the elderly who are affected… kids, outdoor workers, and weekend adventurers are just as vulnerable.

The tricky part? Early signs often go unnoticed until it’s too late.
So, what’s the difference between heat exhaustion and heatstroke, and how can you help before things become serious?

Let’s break it down in simple, practical terms.

Why Heat-Related Illnesses Are So Common in Victoria

Melbourne’s north-west…suburbs like Tullamarine, Keilor, Sunbury, and Melton… is one of the state’s warmest regions.
With more concrete, less shade, and frequent outdoor events, heat builds quickly.

According to Better Health Victoria:

• Each year, hundreds of Victorians are hospitalised due to heat-related illness.
• Children under 5, adults over 65, and people working or exercising outdoors are most at risk.
• Many cases occur in homes, worksites, and vehicles, not just outdoors.

The good news? Nearly all are preventable with early recognition and simple first aid.

Heat Exhaustion vs. Heatstroke: What’s the Difference?

Think of these as two stages of the same problem…  overheating.
Heat exhaustion is the body’s warning sign.
Heatstroke is the emergency stage.

Heat Exhaustion (Early Warning Stage)

Caused by: Prolonged heat exposure, dehydration, or physical activity in hot conditions.

Signs to watch for:

• Heavy sweating
• Pale, clammy skin
• Headache or dizziness
• Nausea or muscle cramps
• Weak, rapid pulse
• Fatigue and irritability

First aid:

1. Move to a cool, shaded area.
2. Loosen or remove excess clothing.
3. Sip cool water slowly (not ice-cold).
4. Apply cool, wet towels to the neck, armpits, and forehead.
5. Rest until fully recovered.

If symptoms persist or worsen, seek medical help… it can quickly escalate to heatstroke.

Heatstroke (Medical Emergency)

Caused by: The body over-heating so severely that it can’t regulate its temperature.

Signs to watch for:

• No longer sweating (hot, dry skin)
• Red, flushed face
• Rapid, strong pulse
• Confusion or slurred speech
• Fainting or collapse
• Seizures or unconsciousness

What to do immediately:

1. Call Triple Zero (000).
   This is a medical emergency.
2. Move the person to a cool place.
3. Cool them rapidly:
   • Use cold, wet towels, spray with water, or fan them.
   • If possible, apply ice packs to the neck, armpits, and groin.
4. Do not give fluids if they’re confused or unconscious…  this can cause choking.
5. Stay with them until help arrives.

Without urgent treatment, heatstroke can cause organ failure or death.

Who’s Most at Risk?

• Outdoor workers: Construction, landscaping, and delivery workers in direct sun.
• Children: Especially those playing sports or left in hot environments.
• Elderly people: Slower to feel thirsty or notice rising temperatures.
• People with medical conditions: Heart disease, diabetes, or on certain medications.
• Athletes and gym-goers: Exercising in hot weather without enough hydration.

How to Prevent Heat Illness

Simple planning can make all the difference.

At home or work:

• Close blinds and windows during the day; open them at night to cool down.
• Use fans or air conditioning if available.
• Avoid strenuous activity during peak heat (11am–4pm).
• Drink water regularly… don’t wait to feel thirsty.
• Check on elderly neighbours or family members.

While outdoors:

• Wear light, loose-fitting clothing and a wide-brimmed hat.
• Carry water and sip frequently.
• Take breaks in shaded areas.
• Apply sunscreen and reapply every two hours.
• Keep an eye on mates… if someone seems confused or dizzy, act early.

First Aid for Heat Emergencies: A Quick Reference Guide

Outdoor Event & Workplace Safety Tips

With summer events like Cup Day barbecues, Christmas parties, and community festivals, organisers should plan for heat safety too.

• Provide shade and water stations.
• Encourage regular breaks for volunteers or workers.
• Have first aid officers trained to recognise heat illness.
• Keep first aid kits stocked with electrolytes, instant cold packs, and thermometers.
• Display emergency contact numbers clearly.

Heat-Ready First Aid Kit Essentials

For families, workplaces, or community groups, add these to your summer first aid supplies:

• Instant cold packs
• Electrolyte tablets or oral rehydration salts
• Thermometer
• Saline solution
• Sunscreen and lip balm (SPF 50+)
• Wide-brim hat and spare water bottle
• Burn gel
• Antiseptic wipes and dressings
• Disposable gloves
• Small towel for cooling

Store it somewhere easy to reach, and restock after each use.

Local Hotspots and Heat Hazards

Melbourne’s north-west experiences more consecutive high-temperature days than many coastal suburbs.

In Keilor, Sunbury, and Melton, temperatures above 35°C can quickly make hiking trails or playgrounds unsafe.

Places like Brimbank Park, Organ Pipes National Park, and Woodlands Historic Park are beautiful in summer…  just remember to plan early walks, pack water, and avoid peak heat hours.

When to Call for Help

Call Triple Zero (000) if:

• The person is confused, faint, or has stopped sweating
• There is vomiting or seizure
• They have a temperature over 40°C
• They lose consciousness

Even if they seem better, medical review is essential after any episode of heatstroke.

Quick Tips for a Safe, Cool Summer

• Drink water before you’re thirsty
• Avoid alcohol and energy drinks in extreme heat
• Plan outdoor activities early or late in the day
• Dress for the weather…  breathable fabrics make a difference
• Never leave kids, pets, or elderly passengers in cars… even for a few minutes

Heatstroke doesn’t only happen to athletes or workers in remote areas.
It happens in backyards, cars, playgrounds, and even at family BBQs.

The key to prevention is awareness.
Know the early signs, carry water, and remember… cooling someone quickly can save their life.

Summer in Melbourne is best enjoyed safely and smartly.

References and Resources

• Better Health Channel – Heat Stress and Heatstroke
• Healthdirect Australia – Dehydration and Heat Illness
• Safe Work Australia – Working in Heat

Bureau of Meteorology – Heatwave Warnings