Heat Exhaustion Explained

Heat exhaustion is an illness that is brought on by exposure to heat. While considered to be mild in most causes, it can result in severe health consequences. Typically, this condition usually occurs when an individual has been exposed to heat for several days. However, for those that are young, old, have health problems associated with blood pressure being too high, and those with immune issues could develop this condition by being exposed to high levels of heat for a couple of hours at a time. In addition to this, those that are not properly hydrated may succumb to heat exhaustion more quickly than most. Many medical professionals refer to heat exhaustion as "Hyperthermia".

Symptoms of Heat Exhaustion

There are many symptoms of heat exhaustion that those who live in warm climates should learn to recognize. When an individual experiences hyperthermia when exposed to high levels of heat, the body is going through a process in which it is absorbing more heat than it can appropriately eliminate. When the components of the body that are responsible for controlling the temperature are exposed to excessive heat, it is not unusual for many symptoms to occur that can be quite uncomfortable, including the elevation of the body temperature. The following may also be experienced:

• Many who are exposed to high heat levels will begin to sweat in large amounts. This happens because the body is attempting to cool itself rapidly. Unfortunately, the loss of fluids could result in dehydration.

• It is very common for the skin to become flushed and appear to be pale in color. To the touch, the skin may actually feel cool.

• Many individuals may develop a mild to severe headache that may or may not include dizziness.

• It is very common for the muscles to contract intensely and for uncomfortable cramps to occur.

• It is not unusual for someone experience heat exhaustion to feel mild to severe nausea. This may or may not be accompanied by vomiting.

• When heat exhaustion occurs, a large strain is placed on the body. A person may start to feel very tired. When they walk, or attempt to move, it is common for them to feel quite weak.

• Fainting is also a common symptom of heat exhaustion.

• The breathing of the individual exposed to high levels of heat may become slow or shallow. They may find that they have a hard time breathing at a comfortable rate.

First Aid Steps for Heat Exhaustion

If you find that someone you know is experiencing the signs of heat exhaustion, it is important to take a few first aid steps immediately. These include:

1. The individual experiencing heat exhaustion should be placed in a cool area immediately.

2. Have the person lie down and place a pillow underneath the lower parts of the legs so that this area and the feet are elevated a bit.

3. You should encourage the individual to drink water that is cool, but not ice cold. They may be issued colder water as their symptoms resolve.

4. Take a wet cloth and/or sponge with cool water and wipe them down.

5. Take cloths that are soaked in cool water and wrap the wrists and place them on the bottoms of the feet as well.

If you are treating someone for heat exhaustion, be certain to monitor them consistently. It is important to keep an eye on their fever. If the body temperature exceeds 102°, if the individual appears to be confused, or if they faint, you may have a medical emergency. In addition to this, having seizures is also a medical emergency. If this happens, seek the assistance of your local emergency response team immediately.