Dealing With Heat Exhaustion
Heat Exhaustion
Heat exhaustion is the body’s response to loss of water and salt through excessive sweating. The most common cause of this condition is working or exercising in hot conditions (such as hiking on a very hot day).
Heat exhaustion occurs when the core body temperature raises above 38°C. If the problem is not treated, it can quickly lead to heat stroke.
Possible signs and symptoms
- Confusion and dizziness.
- Pale, sweaty skin.
- Nausea, loss of appetite and vomiting.
- Fast, weak pulse and fast breathing.
- Cramps in the arms, legs and abdomen.
- The casualty may say that they ‘feel cold’, but they will be hot to touch.
Treatment
- Take the casualty to a cool place.
- Remove excessive clothing and lay them down.
- Give the casualty plenty of water to re-hydrate them.
- Oral rehydration solutions (such as ‘Diorolyte’) or isotonic drinks are best as they also replace lost salt.
- Obtain medical advice, even if the casualty recovers quickly.
- If the casualty’s levels of response deteriorate, place them in the recovery position and dial 999 for an ambulance.
- Monitor Airway and Breathing.
- Treat for heat stroke as necessary.
First Aid Lessons and Help
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These lessons and information do not replace actual attendance on a first aid course, getting hands on practice with your first aid skills is the best way to ensure you are a competant and capable first aider.
If you would like to book a first aid course or if you have a question for us please call 0191 7166601, email admin@firstaidsafeytraining.com or complete our online enquiry form and a member of the team will get back to you shortly.
We provide workplace onsite training for Emergency First Aid, First Aid at Work and Paediatric First Aid but a range of other First Aid Courses across the North East, our first aid training centre is based in South Shields.
