Heat Exhaustion can lead to heat stroke!
Signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion include:
- Feeling Faint
- Dizziness
- Rapid heart beat
- Nausea
- Headache
- Low blood pressure
- Confusion
Symptoms often begin suddenly, sometimes after excessive perspiration and inadequate fluid intake.
If you suspect heat exhaustion:
- Get the person out of the sun and into a shady spot or air-conditioned location.
- Lay the person down and elevate the feet slightly.
- Loosen or remove clothing.
- Have the person drink cold (not iced) water or an electrolyte-containing sports drinks. Gatorade or Powerade is fine, BUT water is the best.
- Monitor the person carefully. Heat exhaustion can quickly become heatstroke. If fainting, fever or confusion occurs despite treatment, telephone call 911 in the U.S. & Canada. (For other countries, see our First Aid page.)