Heat Exhaustion

Heat exhaustion is a condition in which the body is over heated and dehydrated usually from an extended period in a hot and humid area. People of advanced age of 65 years or older are at much higher risk than younger adults. Elderly people are at high risk because most of the elderly have other diseases and conditions that weaken the immune system and they are not able to adjust to changing environmental conditions as younger persons. Heat exhaustion is a dangerous condition if not treated as it can speedily lead to heat stroke, which is a life threatening condition. Heat exhaustion can easily be prevented in hot weather by wearing light weight loose fitting clothing and spending as much time as possible in air-conditioned areas or under fans. Exercise should be cut to a minimum when in a hot and humid area and drink plenty of caffeine free water or liquids.

Common symptoms of heat exhaustion are excessive sweating, anxiety, low blood pressure, abnormal heart beat either slow or fast, tiredness and faint or dizzy feeling. Heat exhaustion can usually be identified by the symptoms. The most effective treatment is to replace the body's liquids and get the person in a cool or air-conditioned area. The person should lie down with the legs elevated or with the head slightly lower than the rest of the body. The liquids to replace are water, salt and electrolytes. Sipping cool water with electrolytes will be beneficial. After an hour of treatment the person should be normal and free of symptoms. If symptoms continue tests should be made to check for other conditions.

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