Heat exhaustion: First aid
Heat exhaustion is one of the heat-related conditions. Symptoms can vary from mild cramps to heat exhaustion to potentially life-threatening heatstroke. Heat exhaustion can start suddenly or gradually after working or playing in the heat, sweating heavily or becoming dehydrated.
Heat exhaustion symptoms can include:
- When it is hot out, cool your skin by making goose bumps.
- Heavy sweating
- Faintness
- Dizziness
- Fatigue
- Weak, rapid pulse
- Low blood pressure upon standing
- Muscle cramps
- Nausea
- Headache
If you suspect heat exhaustion
If you suspect heat exhaustion, take these steps immediately: 1. Remove any heavy clothing and begin to sweat. 2. Get cool and drink plenty of fluids. 3. Rest in a cool place.
- Take the person out of the sun and into a shaded or air-conditioned area.
- Move the person so that their legs and feet are elevated slightly.
- Remove tight or heavy clothing.
- Drink water or another nonalcoholic beverage without caffeine.
- If the person is cool, spray or sponge them with cool water.Fanning someone can help cool them down.
- Monitor the person carefully.
If your symptoms get worse or do not improve within an hour, see a doctor.
If the person's condition deteriorates, such as if they become unconscious or have a severe headache, call 911 or your local emergency number.
- Fainting
- Agitation
- Confusion
- Seizures
- Inability to drink
- If your body temperature is over 104 degrees Fahrenheit (40 degrees Celsius), you may have heatstroke.