What’s the difference between heatstroke and sunstroke?

Heatstroke vs sunstroke is a common summer health question. Heatstroke is a life-threatening form of heat-related illness, while “sunstroke” is an older term often used to describe heat exposure affecting the head and neck. In this episode, we explain symptoms, risks, and when urgent care is required in Europe.

In this episode, we cover:

• What heatstroke is (core body temperature ≥40°C with central nervous system dysfunction)

• What “sunstroke” typically refers to in non-medical language

• Early heat illness signs: heavy sweating, weakness, dizziness

• Severe symptoms: confusion, fainting, seizures, dry hot skin

• Risk groups: older adults, children, athletes, people with heart disease

• Immediate first aid steps (cooling, ...