WHAT YOU SHOULD
KNOW
Heat exhaustion, also called heat prostration, is always
a danger when you work or exercise for a long time in very hot
weather. Older people and children are most likely to get heat
exhaustion, but it can happen to anyone.
Causes
The condition results when the
body loses too much salt and water through heavy sweating. It
is more common in the young and old because their systems are
not quick to adjust to temperature changes.
Signs/Symptoms
You're likely to experience
fatigue, confusion, nervousness, weakness, dizziness, or
faintness. You may also have muscle cramps, a headache, an
upset stomach, and cold, clammy skin.
Care
You can recover from a moderate
attack by resting in a cool place until you are feeling better.
However, a severe attack may require a brief stay in the
hospital, where your body fluids can be restored with IV
liquids containing salt.
WHAT YOU SHOULD DO
-
Drink plenty of sport drinks and similar liquids. You
can make your own by mixing 1/4 teaspoon of salt with 1
quart (about 4 glasses) of water. These liquids will
replace the water and salt you have lost from sweating. Do
NOT take salt tablets.
-
Keep drinking cool, salty liquids until your urine is
a light or pale yellow or clear.
-
If you are throwing up and can't keep fluids down,
try sucking on ice chips or taking sips of
liquids.
-
Get out of the heat, remove your outer clothing, lie
down with your feet up, rest, and cool
off.
-
Taking a bath in cold water may
help.
-
To keep heat exhaustion from happening
again:
-
Try not to exercise heavily during the hottest part
of the day, especially in direct
sunlight.
-
Start exercising slowly, and gradually increase the
amount of exercise you do over several
weeks.
-
Drink liquids, such as water or sports drinks,
before and during exercise.
-
Wear loose fitting, lightweight, light-colored
clothing. Protect your head and neck with a hat or
umbrella when you are outdoors.
Seek Care Immediately If...
-
You feel very hot, confused, and light-headed. These
are signs of a severe attack that may require
hospitalization. Go to the emergency room or
call 911 or 0 (operator). If you cannot get to the
hospital right away, take off your clothes, and put cold
wet cloths next to your skin. You can also use ice packs if
you put a thin cloth between your skin and the
ice.
Return to top
|
Email this page
Printer friendly
Bookmark this page
