Heat Exhaustion

Heat Exhaustion

Heat exhaustion can easily progress to heat stroke, which can be a fatal condition. Learn to recognize the signs of heat exhaustion in order to prevent heat stroke.

• Symptoms:
  
  1. High body temperature, but not over 105°F.
     
  2. Pale, clammy skin.
     
  3. Profuse perspiration.
     
  4. Nausea.
     
  5. Headache.
     
  6. Rapid, shallow breathing.
     
  7. General weakness.
     

• Treatment:
  
  1. Move victim to cool environment.
     
  2. Remove perspiration-soaked clothing.
     
  3. Loosen tight or restrictive clothing.
     
  4. Apply cool, wet cloth to the skin, changing frequently.
     
  5. Keep victim still and prone.
     
  6. Talk to the victim to monitor their responses. Watch for slurring of speech and loss of consciousness
     
  7. Give the victim cool water to drink.
     
  8. Fan the victim or provide air circulating equipment.
     
  9. Do not give victim any alcohol, which is a blood-thinning agent, or caffeine, which is a diuretic.
     

From US Navy boot camp training.