Medical Author: Melissa Conrad Stöppler, MD, Chief Medical Editor
Medically Reviewed on 7/25/2021
Doctor's Notes on Heat Exhaustion
Heat exhaustion is a condition that occurs when the body's cooling mechanism fails to maintain a normal core temperature and the body overheats. Causes of heat exhaustion can include strenuous work or exercise in a warm or hot environment, dehydration, alcohol intake, and wearing clothing that does not allow for evaporative cooling of the body.
Symptoms of heat exhaustion may include weakness, muscle cramps heavy sweating, headache, nausea, vomiting, weak and rapid pulse, thirst, clammy skin, dizziness, and elevated body core temperature (internal temperature, not skin temperature).
Heat exhaustion can occur before the onset of heat stroke, which is a medical emergency. If there are signs or symptoms of heat stroke call 911 or get the person to a hospital’s emergency department immediately.
- Symptoms of heat stroke include that the body stops sweating, and the skin is hot and dry and sometimes reddish colored.
- Stroke-like symptoms including confusion, hallucinations, seizures, loss of consciousness, organ damage, coma, and death can occur in heat stroke if not treated promptly.
What is the treatment for heat exhaustion?
The essentials of treatment for heat exhaustion are
- Cooling, and
- Rehydration
Cooling can be accomplished by moving the individual to a cooler space, ideally to an air-conditioned indoor space or car. Removing clothes and misting with cool water can help with cooling the body.
Rehydration should begin immediately with water, sports drinks, or electrolyte replacement solutions. Even if vomiting occurs, try to give small sips of water or rehydration solutions. Hydration should continue until the affected person is able to urinate.
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What Are Signs of Heat Stroke?
Heat stroke is characterized by hyperventilation, confusion, cramps, headaches and other signs. Heat stroke (also called sun stroke) is a life-threatening medical condition that occurs when the body's cooling system stops working and the body’s core temperature increases to a point at which brain damage or damage to internal organs can occur (105° F [40.5° C] or greater).
REFERENCE:
Kasper, D.L., et al., eds. Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine, 19th Ed. United States: McGraw-Hill Education, 2015.