When the temperatures outside start rising, it’s important to know and recognize the signs and symptoms of heat-related illnesses, including heatstroke and heat exhaustion. It’s also vital to be aware of how to prevent them and what the difference is between the conditions so they can be properly treated. This is especially true of heatstroke, as it can quickly become an emergent—and life-threatening—situation.

The good news is that heatstroke can be prevented, partly by staying well-hydrated. Let’s dive into what heatstroke is, how to prevent it and ways to treat it.

What Is Heatstroke?

Heatstroke occurs when your body cannot properly cool itself due to prolonged exposure to extreme heat.1 When your body does not produce enough sweat to cool you down, it causes your internal temperature to rise, which comes with many risks.