Symptoms Of Heat Exhaustion

Knowing the symptoms of heat exhaustion is important so you know if you or a loved one needs to get out of the sun and treated. Heat exhaustion is caused when a person is overheated, such as when working in the sun for too long. Heat exhaustion is closely related to dehydration, so it's important that if you or someone else is showing symptoms of heat exhaustion, seek medical treatment immediately.

1. Heavy and excessive sweating. While sweating is normal on a hot day, heavy sweating is not. You sweat when your body is trying to cool down. When you start to sweat heavily, you risk becoming dehydrated and suffering from heat exhaustion.
2. Becoming pale. Losing skin color is a prominent sign of heat exhaustion and should be addressed. If you are with someone who loses skin color while working in the sun, move them to a shaded area and watch for other symptoms.
3. Muscles cramps. Muscle cramps can be due to heat exhaustion in addition to dehydration and should not be ignored. Headaches can develop as well.
4. Tiredness and weakness. Becoming extremely tired or having a sudden weakness is common signs in heat exhaustion. These symptoms should be taken seriously because dizziness and fainting can result shortly after.
5. Nausea or vomiting. Feeling sick to your stomach and vomiting can happen if you develop severe heat exhaustion. This is common in severe cases of dehydration and the person should be taken in for medical attention or treated by someone certified in first aid.