What Are the Symptoms of Heat Exhaustion?
Heat exhaustion is a heat-related illness that can occur after prolonged exposure to high temperatures, particularly when combined with high humidity and strenuous physical activity. Symptoms of heat exhaustion include heavy sweating, weakness, cold, pale, and clammy skin, a fast but weak pulse, nausea or vomiting, muscle cramps, tiredness, dizziness, headache, and fainting. If not treated promptly, heat exhaustion can lead to heatstroke, a more severe and potentially life-threatening condition.
It is important to move to a cooler location, rest, and rehydrate by drinking water or sports drinks that replace electrolytes. Applying cool, wet cloths to the skin or taking a cool bath can help lower body temperature. If symptoms do not improve or worsen, seek medical attention immediately, as untreated heat exhaustion can progress to heatstroke, which requires emergency treatment to prevent serious complications or death.
