Heat exhaustion and heat stroke symptoms

Heavy sweating, weakness, headache, and nausea in the heat point to heat exhaustion. Confusion or hot dry skin is heat stroke — an emergency; call 911.

Also called: heat stroke signs · overheating · heat illness

Medically reviewed by Dr. Ikechukwu Ogbu, MD
MD · Board-Certified, Internal Medicine · Last reviewed

Seek urgent care or the ER if you have:

  • Symptoms that are sudden, severe, or rapidly worsening
  • High fever (over 103°F / 39.4°C) that doesn't respond to treatment
  • Chest pain, trouble breathing, fainting, or confusion
  • Signs of dehydration — dizziness, dark urine, unable to keep fluids down
  • Symptoms in someone who is pregnant, immunocompromised, or over 65

What heat exhaustion and heat stroke symptoms could be

The most common causes a clinician considers. This isn't a diagnosis — it's the differential a provider works through with you.

Nausea and vomiting

Nausea and vomiting is one of the more common causes of heat exhaustion and heat stroke symptoms. Ondoc can evaluate it online.

When to see a clinician

  • Symptoms have lasted more than a few days without improving, or keep coming back
  • You're not sure if this needs antibiotics, prescription treatment, or watchful waiting
  • You have a chronic condition (diabetes, heart disease, immunocompromised) that raises the stakes
  • You want a same-day plan without a trip to urgent care
Dr. Ikechukwu Ogbu, MD — Medical Director
Dr. Ikechukwu Ogbu, MD

Board-Certified · Internal Medicine · Medical Director

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