Heat exhaustion
Heat exhaustion is brought on when the body’s core temperature rises from the normal 37°C up to 40°C (98.6-104°F). At that temperature, the levels of water and salt in the body begin to drop. This causes symptoms such as nausea, feeling faint and heavy sweating.
If it is left untreated, heat exhaustion can sometimes lead to heatstroke. (see heatstroke)
Signs and symptoms
- Pale, clammy skin
- Heavy sweating
- Dizziness
- Fatigue
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Rapid heartbeat
- Mental confusion
- Urinating less often and the colour of the urine being much darker than usual
Treatment
- Get them to rest in a cool place, ideally in a room with air conditioning, or at least somewhere that is in the shade
- Give them plenty of fluids to drink. This should either be water or a rehydration drink such as a sports drink. Avoid alcohol or caffeine as this can increase dehydration
- Cool their skin with cold water. If available, use a shower or cold bath to cool them down. If not, then apply wet towels to their skin
- Loosen any unnecessary clothing, and make sure that the person gets plenty of air