Call
+918447748545

Published on: May 28, 2022
1 minute read
By: Second Medic Expert

What Is The Difference Between A Psychiatrist And A Psychologist?

Psychiatrists are medical doctors who have completed specialty training in psychiatry. They are able to prescribe medications, which is not something that psychologists can do. Psychologists have a doctoral degrees in psychology, and many of them specialize in psychotherapy - helping people work through their problems by talking about them. Psychiatrists are medical doctors who have completed a residency in psychiatry. They are able to prescribe medications. Psychologists are not medical doctors and do not prescribe medications. Psychologists typically have a doctoral degree in psychology.

The main difference between psychiatrists and psychologists is that psychiatrists are licensed to prescribe medication, while psychologists are not. Psychiatrists may also provide therapy, while psychologists generally do not. However, many psychiatrists also provide therapy, and many psychologists prescribe medication.

Psychologists, on the other hand, usually have a doctoral degree in psychology but are not licensed to prescribe medication. Psychologists are generally considered to be experts in the assessment of behavior and cognitive functioning, while psychiatrists are considered to be experts in both assessment and treatment. Psychiatrists are licensed to prescribe medication. Psychologists are not medical doctors, and they cannot prescribe medication. Psychologists often have a PhD or a PsyD degree in psychology.

Psychologists have a PhD or a PsyD in psychology. They do not prescribe medications, but they can provide therapy and assessment services. Some psychologists do have prescribing privileges, but this varies from state to state. Psychiatrists are medical doctors who specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of mental illness. Psychologists are not medical doctors, but they have graduate degrees in psychology and they can do psychological testing and therapy.

Psychiatrists can prescribe medications, while psychologists cannot. Some psychiatrists also do therapy, but many do not. Most psychologists do therapy. Psychiatrists can prescribe medications, which psychologists cannot. Psychologists typically have a doctoral degree in psychology but cannot prescribe medications. Psychologists provide therapy, which psychiatrists also do. So, psychiatrists are both therapists and prescribers of medication, while psychologists are therapists only.

Psychiatrists generally do a more detailed evaluation of a person's mental state and symptoms to make a diagnosis, while psychologists may only administer standardized tests. Psychiatrists usually provide long-term treatment for people with serious or chronic mental illness, while psychologists often provide short-term treatment or therapy. Psychiatrists have specialized training in the diagnosis and treatment of mental illness, whereas psychologists do not. psychiatrists can prescribe medication, whereas psychologists cannot.

Read Blog

Heat Exhaustion Warning Signs: Symptoms You Should Never Ignore

Heat-related illnesses are common during hot weather, particularly in tropical countries like India where summer temperatures can become extreme. Heat exhaustion is a serious condition that occurs when the body overheats due to prolonged exposure to high temperatures and inadequate hydration.

Recognizing heat exhaustion warning signs early can prevent life-threatening complications such as heatstroke.

What Is Heat Exhaustion?

Heat exhaustion is a heat-related illness caused by:

Excessive heat exposure
Dehydration
Loss of electrolytes through sweating

It often occurs during outdoor work, exercise or travel in hot environments.

If untreated, it may progress to heatstroke — a medical emergency.

Common Heat Exhaustion Warning Signs

1. Heavy Sweating

Excessive sweating is one of the earliest signs.

The body attempts to cool itself through perspiration, leading to fluid loss.

2. Dizziness or Lightheadedness

Low blood pressure due to dehydration may cause:

Feeling faint
Blurred vision
Weakness

3. Fatigue and Weakness

Muscle weakness and exhaustion occur as the body struggles to regulate temperature.

4. Nausea and Vomiting

Digestive discomfort is common in heat-related illnesses.

5. Headache

Dehydration and heat stress can trigger throbbing headaches.

6. Muscle Cramps

Electrolyte imbalance may cause painful muscle cramps, especially in legs.

7. Rapid Heartbeat

Increased heart rate helps circulate blood for cooling but may indicate strain.

8. Cool, Clammy Skin

Despite hot weather, skin may feel cool and moist due to heavy sweating.

Who Is at Higher Risk?

Certain groups are more vulnerable:

Outdoor laborers
Athletes
Elderly individuals
Children
People with chronic illnesses
Individuals on certain medications

Urban heat exposure increases risk during peak summer months in India.

Heat Exhaustion vs Heatstroke

Heat exhaustion is serious but manageable if treated promptly.

Heatstroke symptoms include:

High body temperature (above 40°C)
Confusion or disorientation
Dry, hot skin
Seizures
Loss of consciousness

Heatstroke requires immediate emergency medical attention.

Immediate Steps to Take

If heat exhaustion is suspected:

Move to a cool, shaded area
Loosen tight clothing
Drink water or oral rehydration solution
Apply cool cloths to body
Rest until symptoms improve

Seek medical care if symptoms persist beyond one hour.

Prevention Tips

Stay Hydrated

Drink water regularly, even if not thirsty.

Avoid Peak Sun Hours

Limit outdoor activity between 12 PM and 4 PM.

Wear Light Clothing

Choose loose, breathable fabrics.

Use Sun Protection

Wear hats and sunglasses when outdoors.

Take Frequent Breaks

Rest in shaded or air-conditioned areas.

Maintain Electrolyte Balance

Use oral rehydration solutions if sweating heavily.

Heat Illness in the Indian Context

India frequently experiences heatwaves, especially in northern and central regions. Public awareness about hydration and heat safety is essential to reduce hospitalizations and fatalities.

Community-level education can significantly improve prevention.

When to Seek Medical Help

Immediate medical attention is required if:

Symptoms worsen
Body temperature rises significantly
Confusion develops
Fainting occurs
Vomiting persists

Early treatment prevents severe complications.

Conclusion

Heat exhaustion is a preventable but potentially dangerous condition. Recognizing warning signs such as heavy sweating, dizziness, nausea and muscle cramps allows timely intervention.

With rising summer temperatures, especially in India, proactive hydration and heat safety measures are essential. Preventive care and awareness can protect vulnerable individuals and reduce health risks.

Staying cool and hydrated is the simplest way to safeguard your health during hot weather.

References

Indian Meteorological Department – Heatwave Reports
World Health Organization – Heat-Related Illness Guidelines
Indian Council of Medical Research – Public Health Advisory
National Disaster Management Authority (India) – Heatwave Action Plan
Lancet Planetary Health – Climate and Health Research

Request A Callback

+91

By using this website/app, I confirm that I am at least 18 years old and consent to the processing of my personal data in accordance with the Terms of Service, Privacy Policy, and Declaration.