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Heat exhaustion is caused by
the loss of bodily fluids. It occurs when the body is not able to
maintain normal body temperature and you overheat.
The 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 may include:
· Feeling
faint
· Nausea
· Heavy
sweating
· Ashen
appearance
· Rapid,
weak heartbeat
· Low
blood pressure
· Cool,
moist skin
· Low-grade
fever
Be sure to drink plenty of
water, especially during the hot summer months! Even though you may not
be thirsty, your body is still losing water. To treat heat exhaustion:
· Get
the person out of the sun and into a shady or air-conditioned location.
· Lay
the person down and elevate the legs and feet slightly.
· Loosen
or remove the person's clothing.
· Have
the person drink cool water, not iced, or a sports drink containing
electrolytes. Be careful not to drink too much water though! This
can turn into muscle cramps.
· Cool
the person by spraying or sponging him or her with cool water and
fanning.
· Monitor
the person carefully. Heat exhaustion can quickly become heatstroke. If
the victim develops a fever greater than 102 F, fainting, confusion or
seizures occur, dial 911 or call for emergency medical assistance.
In mild cases, the victim may
recover in just a few minutes. Remember, if left untreated, heat
exhaustion can lead to potentially life threatening heat stroke. |
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