Heat exhaustion and vomiting

Heat exhaustion can cause nausea and vomiting as the body struggles with heat and fluid loss. Vomiting then makes it harder to replace water and salts, increasing the risk of dehydration. Headache, thirst, weakness, dizziness, heavy sweating and reduced urination may occur as well. Confusion, collapse or a seizure suggests a more dangerous heat emergency rather than uncomplicated heat exhaustion.

Stop exertion and move the person to shade or an air-conditioned area. Loosen clothing and cool the skin with wet cloths, a fan or cool water. Once vomiting settles and the person is fully alert, try tiny, frequent sips of water or an oral rehydration drink. Do not force fluids, and give nothing by mouth to someone who is drowsy, confused or unable to swallow safely. Keep observing them.

Seek urgent care when vomiting continues, fluids repeatedly come back up, urine becomes very dark or scarce, or weakness and dizziness worsen. Call emergency services for confusion, fainting, seizure, severe breathing difficulty or very hot skin. Children, older adults, pregnant people and those with chronic illness may need earlier assessment because fluid loss can become significant quickly.

Ask which rehydration drink is suitable, how to restart normal drinking after vomiting, and whether your medicines need special heat precautions. Describe the heat exposure, vomiting pattern and last time you passed urine.