What to expect from IV fluid therapy for heat exhaustion

Heat, sweating and exertion can reduce body fluid and salt levels. A clinician may move you to a cooler area, loosen clothing and assess temperature, pulse, blood pressure, alertness and urine output. If drinking is difficult or dehydration is significant, a cannula in the hand or arm can deliver fluid gradually. Improvement should be assessed rather than assumed, because heat exhaustion can progress to heat stroke.

Tell staff about heart or kidney disease, pregnancy and regular medicines. Report pain, swelling, redness or leaking around the cannula. Rest in a cool place, avoid exertion, and take small sips of water or an oral rehydration drink when advised. Do not return to heat or strenuous activity simply because you feel better; follow the discharge plan and arrange observation if symptoms have not fully settled.

Call emergency services for confusion, unusual behaviour, seizure, collapse, loss of consciousness, very hot skin, breathing difficulty or inability to drink. These signs can indicate heat stroke or another urgent problem. Seek prompt review for persistent vomiting, worsening headache, severe weakness, faintness or very little urine, especially after time in a hot environment.

Ask what cooling steps you need, how long to avoid exertion, when oral fluids are appropriate, whether medicines should be changed, and how to recognise deterioration.