What should you know about symptoms of heat exhaustion include?

Heat exhaustion develops when the body loses fluid and salt through sweating faster than it can replace them. A person may feel tired, faint or irritable, with muscle cramps and a fast pulse. The skin can remain moist because sweating is still happening. Dehydration can make symptoms more noticeable, especially after exercise or time outdoors.

Move to a cool, shaded or air-conditioned place and loosen unnecessary clothing. Sit or lie down, cool the skin with damp cloths or a fan, and take small, frequent sips of water or an oral rehydration drink if fully awake and able to swallow. Stop exertion and avoid alcohol. Do not leave the person alone while symptoms continue.

Call emergency services if the person becomes confused, faints, has a seizure, cannot drink, has worsening symptoms, or does not improve promptly after cooling and fluids. A very hot body, altered behaviour or loss of consciousness may indicate heat stroke, which needs emergency treatment rather than home care.

Ask whether medicines, kidney problems or a recent stomach illness could increase fluid loss. Discuss a safe hydration plan for work or exercise in hot weather, and ask how to recognise early warning signs before symptoms become severe.