04/10/2026
SUPER EL NINO IS HERE...TAKE CARE & PREVENT HEAT EXHAUSTION & HEAT STROKE.
*Heat exhaustion* and *heat stroke* are both from overheating, but one is serious and the other is life-threatening.
Here’s the quick breakdown:
# # # *1. Heat Exhaustion*
_The body is overheating and dehydrated, but still cooling itself with sweat_
*Common signs:*
- *Heavy sweating* + pale, cool, clammy skin
- *Weakness, dizziness, headache*
- *Nausea/vomiting, muscle cramps*
- *Fast heartbeat, fast breathing*
- *Body temp*: Usually below 40°C / 104°F
*Worse outcome if not addressed:*
It can progress to *heat stroke* within 30 mins to hours. Also risk of fainting, dehydration, kidney stress.
*First aid*: Move to shade/AC, drink water/electrolytes, loosen clothes, cool with wet towels.
# # # *2. Heat Stroke*
_The body’s cooling system fails. This is a medical emergency_
*Common signs:*
- *Hot, dry skin* - sweating stops
- *Confusion, disorientation, slurred speech*
- *Seizures, loss of consciousness*
- *Very high body temp*: 40°C / 104°F or higher
- *Fast, strong pulse*
*Worse outcome if not addressed:*
- *Organ failure* - brain, heart, kidneys, liver can shut down
- *Brain damage* - can be permanent
- *Death* - can happen in minutes. This is why it’s #1 cause of weather-related death
*First aid*: Call emergency services immediately. Move to shade, strip excess clothes, cool with ice packs on neck/armpits/groin + wet towels while waiting.
# # # *Key difference in 1 line*
*Heat exhaustion = you’re still sweating*
*Heat stroke = you stop sweating + brain symptoms*
# # # *Prevention tips for PHILIPPINE weather*
1. Drink water every 15-20 mins, not just when thirsty
2. Avoid playing outside 10am-4pm
3. Wear light clothes, use cap + umbrella
4. Take breaks in shade between walks
If someone is confused, vomiting, or unconscious in the heat - treat it as *heat stroke* and get help right away.