Heat exhaustion is no joke and is defined as a heat-related illness that occurs following exposure to high temperatures. It falls into two categories — water and salt — and while not as extreme as heat stroke, heat exhaustion can still pose serious health risks if not treated accordingly. This includes a progression to heat stroke, which can result in brain and vital organ damage and even death. So what are the symptoms of heat exhaustion, and what can you do to treat it?
Signs and Symptoms
Signs of water-related heat exhaustion include headache, excessive thirst and or weakness, and loss of consciousness. Signs of salt-related heat exhaustion include dizziness, nausea and vomiting, and cramps.
The most common general symptoms of heat exhaustion include fatigue, headache, fainting, diarrhea, pale skin, rapid heartbeat, excessive sweating and dark-colored urine. The latter is a sign of dehydration. Cramping symptoms include muscle and abdominal cramps.
The risk of heat exhaustion is most prevalent when temperatures reach 90 degrees Fahrenheit or higher.
Treatment
Should you or any friend or family member experience the symptoms of heat exhaustion, it’s essential to find a shady area as soon as possible. Remove any clothing that’s unnecessary or constricting, and drink plenty of water. Use cold compresses, and take a cool bath, shower or sponge bath. If any of these remedies don’t alleviate symptoms within 15 minutes, it’s time to visit the nearest emergency room.
Recovery
It’s normal to feel sensitivity to hot weather in the week following heat exhaustion, and it’s best to avoid exercise and excessively-warm temperatures during this time. Your doctor can tell you when it’s okay to begin working out, etc. again.
Have you ever suffered from heat exhaustion or heat stroke? What did you do to reduce symptoms? How was the recovery period? Share your stories in the comments section!