Heat Exhaustion

Precursor to heat stroke, heavy sweating with weakness

Step by Step

Signs: heavy sweating, pale clammy skin, headache, dizziness, nausea, cramps, weakness, fast pulse, and feeling very thirsty. Move the person to a cool, shaded place and help them lie down with legs raised slightly. Remove excess clothing. Cool their skin with wet cloths, fanning, or cold packs on the neck and armpits. Give water, a sports drink, or oral rehydration solution if they are alert. They should start to improve within about 30 minutes. Call emergency services if they do not improve within 30 minutes, become confused, have a seizure, lose consciousness, or cannot keep fluids down, as this may be heat stroke.