Recovery After Heat Exhaustion

Heat exhaustion can leave you weak, thirsty, dizzy, headachy, and unusually tired even after you move away from the heat. Sweating may continue while your body sheds heat. Dark urine or a dry mouth can suggest dehydration. Symptoms should ease with cooling and fluids; ongoing confusion, collapse, or worsening illness is not a normal recovery pattern.

Rest in a cool, shaded or air-conditioned place and loosen extra clothing. Sip water or an oral rehydration drink rather than drinking a large amount quickly. Avoid alcohol and strenuous exercise while you still feel unwell. Eat light foods when your appetite returns. Once you feel fully recovered, resume activity gradually and take frequent cooling and drinking breaks.

Get urgent medical help if you faint, become confused, have a seizure, cannot drink, keep vomiting, or remain very hot despite cooling. Seek assessment if dizziness, weakness, headache, or dark urine continues after rest and fluids, because dehydration or a more serious heat illness may need treatment.

Ask what may have contributed to the episode, when you can return to work or exercise, and whether medicines or a health condition make you more vulnerable to heat. Discuss a personal hydration and cooling plan for future hot days.