Signs of sun exhaustion

Time in strong heat can increase sweating, fluid loss, and physical strain. This may cause tiredness, headache, dizziness, weakness, thirst, muscle cramps, or nausea. Fatigue that persists after cooling and drinking needs a broader look; possible contributors include anaemia, kidney disease, COVID-19, coeliac disease, burnout, or medication and alcohol-related problems. These conditions are possibilities, not conclusions from fatigue alone.

Stop exertion and move indoors or into shade. Cool down, loosen clothing, and sip fluids if you are alert and not vomiting. Eat a light meal if you have not eaten, and rest. Avoid returning to intense heat or exercise until energy and hydration have recovered. Track when the fatigue started and whether sleep, food, fluids, or illness changed around it.

Get urgent help for confusion, fainting, seizure, severe breathing trouble, chest pain, or inability to drink. Arrange a medical review when fatigue is severe, keeps returning, or interferes with work and daily tasks, especially with weight change, fever, bleeding, swelling, or reduced urination.

Ask whether your pattern suggests heat illness or another cause, whether medicines and sleep need review, and whether an examination or blood tests could clarify anaemia, infection, thyroid problems, or kidney function.