Heat exhaustion is a severe form of heat illness. It is a medical emergency. Heat exhaustion is caused by the loss of water and sodium through sweating.

Signs and symptoms

Symptoms of heat exhaustion include nausea, dizziness, irritability, headache, thirst, weakness, high body temperature, excessive sweating, and decreased urine output.[1]

Treatment

First aid for heat exhaustion involves moving the affected person to a cool environment and administering cold liquids.[1]

Prognosis

If untreated, heat exhaustion may progress to heat stroke.[1]

References

  1. ^ a b c Jacklitsch, Brenda L. (June 29, 2011). "Summer Heat Can Be Deadly for Outdoor Workers". NIOSH: Workplace Safety and Health. Medscape and NIOSH.