According to WebMD, there are two kinds of heat exhaustion:
- Water depletion. Signs are excessive thirst, weakness, headache and even loss of consciousness.
- Salt depletion. Symptoms include nausea, vomiting, muscle cramps and dizziness.
Heat exhaustion symptoms:
- confusion
- dark-colored urine (a sign of dehydration)
- dizziness
- fainting
- fatigue
- headache
- cramping
- nausea, vomiting or diarrhea
- pale skin, sweating
- rapid heartbeat
What to do?
- Get out of the heat ASAP.
- Drink fluids.
- Remove tight or unnecessary clothing.
- Take a cool shower or bath (for young children, put a wet T-shirt on them).
- Seek emergency help, especially if recovery isn’t noticeable within about 15 minutes.
Untreated heat exhaustion can progress to heat stroke.
Did you know? After a bout with heat exhaustion, you’ll probably be more sensitive to high temperatures for about a week. So, if possible, avoid outdoor heat and heavy exercise until your doctor says you can safely resume those activities.
