Heat Exhaustion

WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW:

• Heat exhaustion, also called heat prostration, is the most common heat-related problems. It often results from heavy physical activity in hot conditions, and not drinking enough liquids. The body's cooling system in these conditions may not work well and cause an increase in body temperature. Normal body temperature for an adult is generally 37 degrees Celsius, or 98.6 degrees Fahrenheit. With heat exhaustion, body temperature is usually between 37 to 40 degrees Celsius (98.6 to 104 degrees Fahrenheit). Heat exhaustion may damage cells and cause dehydration (loss of too much water and mineral salts). As the body temperature increases and affects your brain, heat exhaustion can lead to heatstroke.
  
  
• Signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion appear when the amount of water and minerals in your body drops too low or too fast. You may have too much sweating, abdominal (stomach) cramping, nausea (upset stomach), or vomiting (throwing up). Other signs include irregular or fast breathing, fast or pounding heartbeat, and low blood pressure. Blood and urine tests, blood gases, or an electrocardiogram (ECG) may be needed to diagnose heat exhaustion. Treatment includes rest, use of cooling units, intravenous fluids (IV), or oral rehydrating solutions. With early rehydration and treatment, you may prevent further problems and continue with your usual activities.

AFTER YOU LEAVE:

Medicines:

• Keep a list of your medicines: Keep a written list of the medicines you take, the amounts, and when and why you take them. Bring the list of your medicines or the pill bottles when you see your caregivers. Do not take any medicines, over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, herbs, or food supplements without first talking to caregivers.
  
  
• Take your medicine as directed: Always take your medicine as directed by caregivers. Call your caregiver if you think your medicines are not helping or if you feel you are having side effects. Do not quit taking your medicines until you discuss it with your caregiver.

Ask your caregiver when to return for a follow-up visit. Keep all appointments. Write down any questions you may have. This way you will remember to ask these questions during your next visit.

Diet: Eat a variety of healthy foods from all the food groups every day. Include whole grain bread, cereal, rice and pasta. Eat a variety of fruits and vegetables, including dark green and orange vegetables and legumes (dry beans). Include dairy products such as low-fat milk, yogurt and cheese. Choose protein sources such as lean meat and poultry (chicken), fish, beans, eggs and nuts. Ask your caregiver how many servings of fats, oils, and sweets you may have each day, and if you need to be on a special diet.

Drinking liquids: Drink enough healthy liquids each day and not just when you feel thirsty. You may drink liquids that have water, sugar, and salt, such as juices, milk, or sports drinks. These liquids help your body hold in fluid and prevent dehydration (losing too much body fluid). Ask your caregiver what you should drink if you are on a low salt or low sugar diet. Follow your caregiver's advice if you need to limit the amount of liquid you drink.

Preventing heat exhaustion: Do the following when exercising or in a place with a very high temperature:

• Drink lots of liquids, such as water, fruit juices, or energy drinks, even if you do not feel thirsty. Avoid drinking alcoholic drinks, such as beer, wine, liquor (vodka and whiskey), or other adult drinks.
  
  
• Eat salty foods, such as celery, salted crackers, and salted pretzels.
  
  
• Limit your activities or strenuous exercises during the hottest time of the day. The hottest time of the day is usually late morning through early afternoon. Athletes may need to arrive at their event location 3 to 4 days before the event to adjust to the heat.
  
  
• Never leave children alone inside cars, especially during hot weather.
  
  
• Use air conditioners or fans, and have enough proper ventilation. If there is no air conditioning available, keep your windows open so that air may enter the rooms.
  
  
• Wear lightweight, loose, and light-colored clothing. Protect your head and neck with a hat or umbrella when you are outdoors.
  
  
• When planning your daily activities, check out the weather forecast first, especially if you need to work outdoors.

Wellness hints:

• Alcohol: Do not drink alcohol. Alcohol can damage your brain, heart, and liver. Almost every part of your body can be harmed by alcohol. Drinking alcohol can also make your illness worse. Talk to your caregiver if you drink alcohol, and ask for information about how to stop.
  
  
• Exercise: Talk to your caregiver before you start exercising. Together you can plan the best exercise program for you. It is best to start slowly and do more as you get stronger. Exercising makes the heart stronger, lowers blood pressure, and keeps you healthy.
  
  
• Rest: You may feel like resting more. Slowly start to do more each day. Rest when you feel it is needed.

For support and more information: Having heat exhaustion may be hard for you and your family. Contact the following for more information:

• American Academy of Family Physicians
  PO Box 11210
  Shawnee Mission, KS 66207-1210
  Phone: 1-913-906-6000
  Web Address: http://www.aafp.org
  

CONTACT A CAREGIVER IF:

• You have muscle cramps or twitching.
  
  
• You have nausea (upset stomach) or vomiting (throwing up).
  
  
• You have numbness or pricking in your arms or legs.
  
  
• You have questions or concerns about your condition, medicine, or care.

SEEK CARE IMMEDIATELY IF:

• You are confused or cannot think clearly.
  
  
• You cannot move your arms and legs.
  
  
• You feel very weak or tired.
  
  
• You have an irregular heartbeat.
  
  
• You have trouble breathing.

Copyright © 2008 Thomson Healthcare Inc. All rights reserved. Information is for End User's use only and may not be sold, redistributed or otherwise used for commercial purposes.

The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.

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