Heat Exhaustion: Cause, Warning Signs And Treatments

Jul 23, 2011
Calum Awcock

Heat can be dangerous - Audrey. Some rights reserved.

We all enjoy spending time outside in the sun, but it is important to be able to spot the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion.

What causes heat exhaustion?

Heat exhaustion is primarily caused by the body's inability to keep itself cool during exposure to hot temperatures. The body cools itself by sweating. When sweat evaporates it cools the body. The problem is that for this cooling system to function properly, conditions need to be right.

There must be enough fluid in the body to allow perspiration and a cool breeze needs to be able to flow over the skin to enable evaporation. Low air humidity is required to allow the evaporation process to work.

Heat exhaustion is a major concern for anyone working outside or performing any kind of physical activity in hot temperatures.

Heat exhaustion symptoms.

The symptoms of heat exhaustion include; profuse sweating, weakness, nausea and vomiting, headache, light-headedness and muscle cramps.

It is important to be aware of the symptoms of heat exhaustion and keep a careful eye out for any early warning signs. If not treated in time heat exhaustion can lead to heat stroke which can be very serious. Heat exhaustion becomes heat stroke when the body can no longer regulate its temperature. The symptoms of heat stroke are more severe and the person may become;confused, lethargic, start to seizure, stop sweating and have a high temperature that can rise to 106F or 41 C. This is life threatening and it is important to seek medical assistance immediately.

It is worth being aware that the lines between heat exhaustion and heat stroke blur very quickly.

Who is at risk from heat exhaustion?

Heat exhaustion can affect anyone but the main groups to watch out for are the elderly and infants.

Other factors that can increase the risk of heat stroke?

Alcohol consumption can increase the chances of heat exhaustion because it can lead to dehydration.

Being overweight also increases an individual's risk.

Some medications such as anti-depressants and anti-psychotics can interfere with the body's temperature regulation and ability to sweat.

Treatment for heat exhaustion.

Re-hydration is extremely important. If the the person is experiencing nausea or vomiting then small sips are better. Electrolyte replacement drinks and sports drinks may help.

If the person cannot keep fluids down and is being violently sick, intravenous re-hydration may be needed. Muscle cramps can be eased with over the counter painkillers. It is important to get out of the sun and try to stay cool and rest.

Heat exhaustion and heat stroke do kill and therefore should be taken seriously. We all want to have fun in the sun and enjoy the good weather, but we will enjoy it more by staying safe. Keep an eye out for anyone who may be experiencing the symptoms of heat exhaustion and implement the correct treatment as soon as possible to stop it from becoming a more serious problem.