Dehydration lowers the body’s ability to sweat because it deprives the body of vital chemicals called electrolytes. Heat exhaustion may occur if a person is unable to reduce their body temperature by perspiring. Even though it occasionally makes a person feel cool, heat exhaustion often results in a rise in body temperature.
Signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion
Symptoms include a rapid heartbeat, low blood pressure or dizziness, irritability or aggressive behavior, red, flushed skin, and quick, shallow breathing. An infant with heat exhaustion needs to be treated right away, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics.
Heat exhaustion treatment
It’s imperative to leave the heat as soon as anyone else starts to experience signs of heat exhaustion and rest, preferably in an air-conditioned space. Look for the closest cool, shaded area if they can’t enter. Because untreated heat exhaustion can turn into heat stroke, seek emergency medical attention if such actions do not relieve their symptoms within 15 minutes.
Potential risks of heat exhaustion
The heat index is a measurement of how hot anyone feels when the effects of relative humidity and air temperature are combined. Sweat evaporation is hampered by the relative humidity of 60% or higher, which reduces one’s body’s capacity to cool itself. During a lengthy heat wave, those who reside in cities may be more susceptible to developing heat exhaustion. So, try to avoid drinking any fluids that contain alcohol or caffeine since both chemicals might cause you to lose more fluids and exacerbate heat exhaustion.