Heat exhaustion is a serious heat-related illness where the body overheats due to excessive water and salt loss, often from heavy sweating in hot conditions or intense activity, leading to symptoms like heavy sweating, dizziness, nausea, headache, and rapid pulse, and it can progress to life-threatening heatstroke if not treated promptly with cooling and fluids.
Common Signs & Symptoms:
- Heavy sweating
- Cool, pale, clammy skin
- Weakness, fatigue, dizziness, or fainting
- Headache
- Nausea or vomiting
- Muscle cramps
- Rapid, weak pulse
- Thirst
Causes
It occurs when your body can’t cool itself effectively, often from: Prolonged exposure to high temperatures, Strenuous physical activity in the heat, and Dehydration (not drinking enough fluids).
What to Do (First Aid)
- Move to a cooler place: Get out of the heat immediately.
- Hydrate: Sip cool water or sports drinks.
- Cool down: Take a cool shower, use wet cloths, or fan yourself.
- Loosen clothing: Remove excess clothing.
- Rest: Lie down and elevate your feet.
When to Seek Emergency Help
Heat exhaustion can become heatstroke, a medical emergency. Call for emergency help if symptoms worsen, you’re confused, or if the person doesn’t improve within an hour of cooling measures