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Information collected from the MayoClinic.com website,
Heat exhaustion is one of the heat-related syndromes, which range in severity from mild heat cramps to heat exhaustion to potentially life-threatening heatstroke.
Signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion often begin suddenly, sometimes after excessive exercise, heavy perspiration and inadequate fluid intake. Signs and symptoms resemble those of shock and include:
- Feeling faint
- Nausea
- Ashen appearance
- Rapid heartbeat
- Low blood pressure
- Hot, red, dry or sweaty skin
- Low-grade fever, generally less than 104 F
If you suspect heat exhaustion:
- Get the person out of the sun and into a shady or air-conditioned location.
- Lay the person down and elevate the feet slightly.
- Loosen or remove the person's clothing.
- Have the person drink cool water, not iced, or a sports drink containing electrolytes.
- Cool the person by spraying him or her with cool water and fanning.
- Monitor the person carefully. Heat exhaustion can quickly become heatstroke. If fever — especially greater than 104 F, fainting, confusion or seizures occur, dial 911 or call for emergency medical assistance.
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