Differentiating Exertional Heat Exhaustion and Exertional Heat Stroke

Course overview

The course describes the etiologies attributed to exertional heat exhaustion and exertional heat stroke in active populations. Exertional heat stroke is commonly mistaken for heat exhaustion during evaluation. This course will compare and contrast exertional heat exhaustion and exertional heat stroke signs and symptoms to improve differential diagnosis. Treatment of exertional heat exhaustion and exertional heat stroke can be done on site, and the framework of treatment plan procedures for both conditions is built for active populations. A comparison of oral versus intravenous fluid administration for heat exhaustion patients is presented, and developing a detailed ice water immersion plan for heat stroke patients, with research support, is discussed.