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Heat Exhaustion
Heat exhaustion is the body's response to an excessive loss of water and salt contained in sweat. Those most prone to heat exhaustion are elderly people, people with high blood preset and people working or exercising in a hot environment.
Recognizing Heat Exhaustion
Warning signs of heat exhaustion include:
heavy sweating
paleness
muscle cramps
tiredness
weakness
dizziness
headache
nausea or vomiting
fainting
The skin may be cool and moist. The victim's pulse rate will be fast and weak, and breathing will be fast and shallow. If heat exhaustion is untreated, it may progress to heat stroke. Seek medical attention immediately if:
symptoms are severe, or
the victim has heart problems or high blood pressure.
Otherwise, help the victim to cool off, and seek medical attention if symptoms worsen or last longer than 1 hour.
What to Do
Cooling measures that may be effective include:
cool, non-alcoholic beverages, as directed by your physician
rest
cool shower, bath, or sponge bath
an air-conditioned environment
Lightweight clothing
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