User:Mr. Ibrahem/Heat exhaustion

Heat exhaustion is the body’s response to an excessive loss of water and salt, usually through excessive sweating. Symptoms include headache, nausea, lightheadedness, sweating, and increased body temperature but not more than 40.5°C (104°F). Onset may be rapid or over several days. Without treatment, heat stroke may occur.

The cause is typically being in high temperatures with not enough fluids. Risk factors include older age, younger, high blood pressure, and intense exercise. It is a type of heat illness of moderate severity. Unlike heat stroke, it is not associated with confusion.

Management involves moving to a cool environment, drinking cool fluids, and putting cool water on the body. Exercise should be stopped and direct sun exposure should be avoided. Assessment in an emergency department is recommended. Heat acclimatization and fitness training can decrease the risk.

Heat exhaustion affects millions of people a year. It represents about 4 per 10,000 emergency department visits in the United States. Heat illness is predicted to become significantly more common over the next few decades. Recommended planning for heat waves, including the availability of air conditioned spaces, is recommended.