What are the treatment options for heat exhaustion?

Heat exhaustion can develop when sweating and heat exposure lead to loss of water and salts. Affected people may feel weak, dizzy, headachy, nauseated, very thirsty, or unusually tired, with heavy sweating and cool, clammy skin. The person should stop exertion and be observed while cooling begins.

If the person is awake and can swallow safely, small, frequent sips of cool water or an oral rehydration drink can replace fluid and electrolytes. A clinician may recommend oral rehydration therapy when losses are more significant. IV fluid therapy may be considered when drinking is not possible, symptoms are severe, or dehydration needs supervised treatment.

Move the person into shade or an air-conditioned room, loosen unnecessary clothing, and cool the skin with cool wet cloths, a fan, or a cool shower. Let them rest and sip fluids slowly. Avoid alcohol and strenuous activity while recovering, and arrange medical advice if symptoms do not improve promptly or return after activity.

Do not leave a confused, faint, vomiting, or rapidly worsening person alone. If they become drowsy or cannot swallow safely, do not force fluids; contact emergency services and follow the operator's instructions.

Get emergency help for confusion, collapse, a seizure, loss of consciousness, very hot skin, severe breathlessness, or inability to drink. These signs can indicate heatstroke, which can damage organs and needs urgent treatment. Seek medical assessment as well when symptoms are worsening, persistent despite cooling and fluids, or occurring in a child, older adult, or person with a serious medical condition.

Ask which drink is suitable for replacing fluid and salts, whether your medicines or medical conditions increase heat risk, and when you can return to work or exercise. If symptoms needed clinical treatment, ask whether oral rehydration therapy or IV fluid therapy is appropriate if they recur.