First Aid & Emergencies
Heat Exhaustion Treatment
Call 911 if the person:
- Has a very high, weak pulse rate and rapid shallow breathing, especially when combined with high or low blood pressure
- Is unconscious, disoriented, or has a high body temperature
- Has warm, dry skin, elevated or lowered blood pressure, and is hyperventilating
1. Lower Body Temperature
- Get the person out of the heat and into a cool environment.
- If air-conditioning is not available, fan the person.
- Spray the person with a garden hose, get him into a cool shower, apply cool compresses, or give the person a sponge bath
2. Rehydrate
- Give cool, nonalcoholic beverages as long as the person is alert.
3. Rest
- Have the person avoid physical activity for the rest of the day.
- Give over the counter acetaminophen if the person has a mild headache.
4. See a Health Care Provider
Untreated heat exhaustion can progress to heat stroke. See a doctor that day if:
- Symptoms get worse or last more than an hour
- The person is nauseated or vomiting
WebMD Medical Reference
Reviewed by
Robert L. Norris, MD on November 07, 2011
© 2011 WebMD, LLC. All rights reserved.
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