Heat Exhaustion

Symptoms of Heat Exhaustion

The symptoms of heat exhaustion can appear unexpectedly after strenuous exercise, after heavy sweating, and after insufficient fluid consumption. The symptoms are similar to those of shock. Some of these symptoms are excessive sweating, muscle cramps and pain, giddiness, fainting, change in appearance of the skin, headache, weakness, thirst, nausea, irregular heartbeat pattern, weakening pulse, fluctuation in blood pressure, and elevated body temperature (fever-like symptoms).

Preventing Heat Exhaustion Heat exhaustion is a preventable illness. Here are a few suggestions: Avoid strenuous physical activity or exercise in hot and humid conditions, especially when the outside temperature is very high. Be sure to avoid the harsh afternoon sun. Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothes, preferably made of natural fabric such as cotton and linen because they facilitate the evaporation of sweat. Wear a hat (ideally wide-brimmed) when stepping out in the sun. Also, remember to apply sunscreen onto the exposed body areas such as the face, neck, arms, legs, and feet. Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated. If performing any physical activity outdoors in the heat, consider stocking up on sports drinks and isotonic beverages that are loaded with electrolytes and essential nutrients. Stay away from alcohol and caffeinated drinks because they increase the risk of dehydration.

Natural Cures

Heat exhaustion is mainly caused by the loss of fluids and essential nutrients from the body. The fastest and most beneficial way to recover from heat exhaustion is to replace the loss of fluids by drinking water, electrolyte solutions, and other cooling beverages. Some of the self-care measures that can be used to treat mild cases of heat exhaustion are given below:

	Step out of the sun and move to a cool, shaded area.
	Consume cool (not iced) beverages such as water or sports drinks that will replace the salt that has been lost.
	Loosen clothing and splash cool water onto the skin.
	Lie down and have someone fan you to lower the body temperature.
	Do not consume any beverages containing alcohol or caffeine.
	Monitor the condition. Heat exhaustion can quickly manifest into heatstroke. If symptoms are observed such as fever greater than 102 degrees Fahrenheit, fainting, confusion, or seizures, call for emergency medical assistance.

Use a few of the remedies given below to cure dehydration, one of the major symptoms of heat exhaustion. Coping with dehydration can aid in speeding the recovery from heat exhaustion.

Water

Water is the best, cheapest, and instantaneous cure for heat exhaustion. Consume it in the form of popsicles, ice cubes, or flavored with fruit juice.

Fruits and vegetables

Bananas are wholesome and are especially good for restoring potassium that has been depleted by dehydration. Additionally, fruits that have high water contents can help to restore water imbalance and to provide additional nutrients. Consume cantaloupe, watermelon, oranges, and strawberries. Vegetables such as cucumbers, tomatoes, celery, green peas, and spinach are also beneficial. Drink fresh fruit and vegetable juices that have essential vitamins and minerals that the body needs to replenish. Add one teaspoon of lime juice, a pinch of salt, and one teaspoon of sugar to one pint of water. Sip this cooling and refreshing lemonade throughout the day to cure mild dehydration.

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