Heat exhaustion can be best described as a precursor to which more severe condition?

Heat exhaustion is characterized by symptoms such as heavy sweating, weakness, fatigue, dizziness, and a rapid pulse. It occurs when the body loses excessive amounts of water and salt through prolonged exposure to high temperatures, especially in combination with strenuous physical activity. If not recognized and treated promptly, heat exhaustion can escalate into heat stroke, which is a much more severe and life-threatening condition.

Heat stroke occurs when the body's temperature regulation fails, leading to a rapid increase in core body temperature, typically above 104°F (40°C). This can result in confusion, loss of consciousness, organ failure, and can be fatal if not addressed immediately. The relationship is significant, as heat exhaustion serves as an alert that the body is struggling to cope with heat stress, and without intervention, it can lead to the more critical state represented by heat stroke.