Heat exhaustion is a heat-induced illness that occurs when a person’s body temperature elevates after experiencing prolonged exposure to excessive or unaccustomed heat. It is a moderate form of hyperthermia.
Signs and symptoms
- Cramps or muscle weakness
- Dehydration
- Dizziness
- Elevated body temperature
- Fatigue
- Headaches
- Heavy sweating
- Nausea or vomiting
- Pale skin
- Potential collapse
- Thirst
Management
- Lay the person down in a cool, shaded and protected environment.
- Loosen and remove excess clothing.
- Cool the person quickly with a combination of the following cooling methods:
- apply wrapped cold packs or ice to the groin, armpits, facial cheeks, palms and soles
- gently fan them
- give a sip of cool water or a commercial sports drink slowly when conscious
- moisten the skin with a cool damp cloth or gently spray the person with water.
- Monitor the person’s condition and reassure them.
Note
- Send for help and request an ambulance if the person’s condition does not improve quickly or deteriorates.
- Do NOT give fluids by mouth if the person is unconscious and breathing normally.
- Do NOT give the person any paracetamol used to reduce fever.
- Refer to the latest ARC Guideline for Heat Induced Illness to learn more.