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Heat exhaustion occurs when the body becomes dehydrated and is unable to regulate its internal body temperature. The condition is not usually considered life-threatening and is treatable with fluids and rest. In this article, we look at the symptoms and treatment of heat exhaustion, as well as how to prevent it. Normally, the body gets rid of excess internal heat by pumping blood to the surface of the skin and releasing sweat. Warm, moist air absorbs less sweat from the skin and limits the body’s ability to cool itself by sweating. When the body is dehydrated, it lacks water and essential salts called electrolytes, which reduces its ability to sweat. If a person is unable to cool down by sweating, they may experience heat exhaustion. Heat exhaustion usually causes a rise in body temperature, even though it can sometimes cause a person to feel cool. Share on PinterestSymptoms of heat exhaustion may include excessive sweating, dizziness and headaches. The symptoms of heat exhaustion can be easy to overlook and are similar to those of many other medical conditions. Common signs of heat exhaustion include:
Symptoms of heat exhaustion in childrenThe symptoms of heat exhaustion in children are similar to those in adults; they may:
If they are old enough, they might complain of stomach or leg cramps. It is important to treat a child with heat exhaustion immediately. Heat exhaustion versus heat strokeHeat exhaustion, if left untreated, can lead to heatstroke. Unlike heatstroke, which can be life-threatening, heat exhaustion does not cause impaired mental function, confusion, or loss of consciousness. Cases of heat exhaustion are also distinguished from heatstroke because a person’s internal body temperature does not go above 103°F. Heat stroke is less common than heat exhaustion but more serious; it puts strain on the heart, lungs, kidneys, and liver. Heat exhaustion is most often caused by a combination of physical exertion and warm weather. Additional factors known to increase the likelihood of heat exhaustion include:
On its own, heat exhaustion is not considered a major health concern. If left untreated, however, heat exhaustion can lead to heatstroke and further complications, including brain damage and organ failure. In rare cases, when heat exhaustion is accompanied by intense exercise or other medical conditions, it may cause a serious health risk. Potential complications of heat exhaustion include:
Share on PinterestAlongside drinking fluids, heat exhaustion may be treated by moving to a cool and shaded area. If heat exhaustion is suspected, a person should stop doing exercise or physical activity immediately. A person with heat exhaustion should also drink fluids as soon as possible. Further tips for treating heat exhaustion include:
How to rehydrateMake an at-home oral-rehydration solution by following these steps:
Some drinks and foods can also act as oral-rehydrating formulas, including:
Recovery timeIn most people, symptoms of heat exhaustion will start to improve within 30 minutes. However, if symptoms do not improve after 30–60 minutes, seek medical attention. A doctor will treat heat exhaustion with one or two liters of intravenous (IV) fluids and electrolytes. If fluids and rest do not resolve symptoms, a doctor will perform a blood work-up and other clinical tests to rule out other potential causes. If heat exhaustion is treated promptly, the individual will be fully recovered within 24-48 hours. A person can help prevent heat exhaustion by staying hydrated and cool. Other ways to prevent heat exhaustion include:
The symptoms of heat exhaustion are meant to warn the body that it is becoming overheated. Heat cramps, the mildest type of heat-related syndromes, usually occur before heat exhaustion. Treating heat cramps as soon as they occur may prevent heat exhaustion from developing. Symptoms of heat cramps include:
Heat cramps can be treated with fluids and rest. A person should also seek shade or an air-conditioned building as soon as possible. Last medically reviewed on January 16, 2018
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