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Heat exhaustion happens when your body gets too hot. It can be caused by physical exercise or hot weather. On hot humid days, the evaporation of perspiration is slowed, resulting in a rise of body temperature. The skin may absorb more heat than it can shed and to make things even more difficult, consider all this in an environment where the air is not moving. Signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion:
* heavy sweating
* exhaustion, feeling lethargic
* pale, sweaty or flushed skin
* headache
* nausea or vomiting
* muscle cramps
* thirst
* decreased urine output
* dizziness
* elevated heart rate
* elevated respiratory rate
When heat exhaustion occurs, it is essential to give care immediately. Have the patient stop activity and rest in a cool, shady spot. Over a period of 20-30 minutes have the patient drink either a quart of water with a salty snack or a diluted sports drink. Do NOT drink alcohol or caffeinated drinks (such as soda). Wet the patient down and fan them to increase the rate of cooling. Cooling the person with ice packs to the armpits, groin, neck and back can help the person to cool down. Take off any tight or unnecessary clothing. If the person has muscle cramps gently massage the area and if the person is drowsy allow them to sleep. If the person does not feel better within 30 minutes, contact a doctor or call 911. If heat exhaustion is not treated, it can progress to heatstroke. Heatstroke can cause damage to your organs and brain and in extreme cases, it can kill you.

To help prevent heat illness, stay in air-conditioned areas. If you must go outside, take the following precautions:
* Wear lightweight, light-colored, loose-fitting clothing
* Wear a hat or us an umbrella
* Use sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 15 or more
* Drink plenty of water before going outside and continue to drink every 15-20 minutes

Remember that heat-related illness are not only caused by high temperatures and a loss of fluids, but also a lack of salt in the body. Sports drinks can help replenish the salt in your body. Note, dark colored urine is an indication that you are dehydrated
* Do not drink caffeine, such as tea, coffee and soda
* Do not drink alcohol
* Go outside before 10:00 a.m. and after 6:00 p.m.
* Consult your doctor about how to deal with the heat, about drinking extra fluids and about your medicines.
It can take up to a week or two to feel better after having a heat related illness. Consult your doctor as to when it would be safe for you to return to your normal activities.


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