Heat Exhaustion
Heat exhaustion occurs when the body cannot sweat enough to cool off the body. Heat exhaustion is usually a result of too much heat and/or humidity and not enough fluids in the body. Working or exercising in hot weather can bring on heat exhaustion.
A person with heat exhaustion is generally experiencing fatigue, weakness, dizziness, or vomiting. The skin can be cool, clammy, pale, red, or flushed. A person experiencing heat exhaustion will be aware that he or she is thirsty and needs to cool off.
Moving the person to a cool place out of the sun and giving that person water is an effective way to treat heat exhaustion. Start with a small amount of water, then increase the amount as the person begins to feel better. Having the person lie down can help alleviate the nausea or dizziness. Applying a cool compress or sponge to the body also relieves some of the symptoms.
Heat exhaustion can be prevented by avoiding strenuous activity during the hottest part of the day, drinking a minimum of eight glasses of water a day (more if you are exercising), and wearing light-colored clothing to reflect the sun's rays.
Left untreated, heat exhaustion can lead to heat stroke. Heat stroke requires immediate medical attention.
