With Soaring Lubbock Temperatures, Know the Difference Between Heat Exhaustion and Heat Stroke

With temperatures soaring here in Lubbock, beware! Correctly identifying the differences between heat exhaustion and heat stroke could save a life. While both are urgent, heat stroke means you need 9-1-1 help, according to our National Weather Service.

Heat stroke causes your temperature to soar and your skin to flush red. Additionally, you may have a throbbing headache and, despite the heat, aren't sweating. All of this may cause loss of consciousness, which means it's an urgent situation that deserves a 9-1-1 call.

Heat exhaustion has some opposite symptoms. You become pale instead of red,  sweat profusely and have a relatively cool body temperature. It's important to move to a cooler place and take sips of water, but a 9-1-1 call may not be necessary.

Here's the easy-to-read chart from the National Weather Service:

Visit the National Weather Service website for more information on heat-related illness and safety. Have a safe and happy summer!