From the Guidelines
Heat exhaustion symptoms include nausea, dizziness, muscle cramps, feeling faint, headache, fatigue, and heavy sweating, and it is crucial to treat it promptly to prevent progression to heat stroke, which can be fatal 1. The symptoms of heat exhaustion can start suddenly and may include a range of systemic effects. Key symptoms to look out for are:
- Nausea
- Dizziness
- Muscle cramps
- Feeling faint
- Headache
- Fatigue
- Heavy sweating It is essential to recognize these symptoms early and initiate treatment to prevent the condition from worsening.
Treatment of Heat Exhaustion
The most effective treatment for heat exhaustion involves moving the individual to a cool place, removing excess clothing, and providing cool liquids if the person is able to swallow, as recommended by the 2024 American Heart Association and American Red Cross guidelines for first aid 1. Treatment strategies should focus on cooling the body and replenishing fluids. This can be achieved by:
- Moving to a cool environment
- Removing excess clothing
- Providing cool liquids for hydration, such as water or electrolyte-rich beverages like sports drinks
- Applying cool, wet cloths to the body or taking a cool bath to lower the body temperature
Prevention and Further Care
Preventing heat exhaustion involves staying hydrated, wearing loose, light clothing, avoiding strenuous activities during the hottest parts of the day, and gradually acclimatizing to hot environments. If symptoms of heat exhaustion worsen, do not improve within an hour, or if vomiting occurs, it is crucial to seek medical help promptly. Heat exhaustion can progress to heat stroke, a life-threatening condition that requires immediate medical attention.
From the Research
Symptoms of Heat Exhaustion
Treatment of Heat Exhaustion
- Immediate reduction of heat gain by discontinuing exercise and reducing radiative heat source exposure 2
- Encouraging the individual to drink cool fluids 2
- Removing or loosening clothing to facilitate heat loss 2
- Using aggressive cooling strategies such as cold shower or application of wet towels in extreme situations 2
- Hydration and moving the patient to a cool place 3
- Cold water immersion or convection evaporation method for cooling 5
Prevention of Heat-Related Illnesses
- Increasing public awareness of the risks associated with exposure to high temperatures and prolonged exercise 2
- Identification of at-risk groups to provide preventive measures 3
- Dissemination of information about dangerous heat waves and use of heat shelters 4
- Early recognition by health workers, socialization to vulnerable groups, and adequate acclimatization 5