Overview

Warmth exhaustion is without doubt one of the heat-related syndromes. These syndromes differ in seriousness, starting from gentle to probably life-threatening. Different sorts of heat-related sicknesses embody warmth rash, warmth cramps, warmth syncope and heatstroke.

Warmth exhaustion can occur when the physique loses an excessive amount of water or salt — often due to heavy sweating or dehydration. It could possibly start instantly or occur over time, often after working, exercising or taking part in within the warmth.

When to hunt emergency assist

Name 911 or your native emergency quantity if the affected individual:

  • Faints.
  • Turns into agitated.
  • Is confused.
  • Has a seizure.
  • Will not be capable of drink.
  • Has a core physique temperature – measured with a rectal thermometer – of 104 levels Fahrenheit (40 levels Celsius), which signifies heatstroke.

Signs

Warmth exhaustion signs embody:

  • Cool, moist pores and skin with goose bumps when within the warmth.
  • Heavy sweating.
  • Faintness.
  • Dizziness.
  • Fatigue.
  • Weak, speedy pulse.
  • Low blood stress after standing up.
  • Muscle cramps.
  • Nausea or vomiting.
  • Headache.
  • Excessive thirst.
  • Gentle confusion.
  • Decreased urine output.

Remedy

Untreated, warmth exhaustion can result in heatstroke, which is a life-threatening situation. In case you suspect warmth exhaustion, take these steps instantly:

  • Transfer the individual out of the warmth and right into a shady or air-conditioned place.
  • Lay the individual down and lift the legs and toes barely.
  • Take away tight or heavy clothes.
  • Have the individual sip chilled water, a sports activities drink containing electrolytes or one other nonalcoholic beverage with out caffeine.
  • Cool the individual by spraying or sponging with cool water and fanning.
  • Monitor the individual fastidiously.

Contact a healthcare skilled if signs worsen or if the individual does not enhance after taking first-aid measures.

 

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April 16, 2024