OverviewHeat exhaustion is a condition whose symptoms may include heavy sweating and a rapid pulse, a result of your body overheating. It's one of three heat-related syndromes, with heat cramps being the mildest and heatstroke being the most severe. Show
Causes of heat exhaustion include exposure to high temperatures, particularly when combined with high humidity, and strenuous physical activity. Without prompt treatment, heat exhaustion can lead to heatstroke, a life-threatening condition. Fortunately, heat exhaustion is preventable. SymptomsSigns and symptoms of heat exhaustion may develop suddenly or over time, especially with prolonged periods of exercise. Possible heat exhaustion signs and symptoms include:
When to see a doctorIf you think you're experiencing heat exhaustion:
Contact your doctor if your signs or symptoms worsen or if they don't improve within one hour. If you are with someone showing signs of heat exhaustion, seek immediate medical attention if he or she becomes confused or agitated, loses consciousness, or is unable to drink. You will need immediate cooling and urgent medical attention if your core body temperature (measured by a rectal thermometer) reaches 104 F (40 C) or higher. Sign up for free, and stay up to date on research advancements,
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protected health information and will only use or disclose that information as set forth in our notice of privacy practices. You may opt-out of email communications at any time by clicking on the unsubscribe link in the e-mail. CausesYour body's heat combined with environmental heat results in what's called your core temperature — your body's internal temperature. Your body needs to regulate the heat gain (and, in cold weather, heat loss) from the environment to maintain a core temperature that's normal, approximately 98.6 F (37 C). Your body's failure to cool itselfIn hot weather, your body cools itself mainly by sweating. The evaporation of your sweat regulates your body temperature. However, when you exercise strenuously or otherwise overexert in hot, humid weather, your body is less able to cool itself efficiently. As a result, your body may develop heat cramps, the mildest form of heat-related illness. Signs and symptoms of heat cramps usually include heavy sweating, fatigue, thirst and muscle cramps. Prompt treatment usually prevents heat cramps from progressing to heat exhaustion. You usually can treat heat cramps by drinking fluids or sports drinks containing electrolytes (Gatorade, Powerade, others), getting into cooler temperatures, such as an air-conditioned or shaded place, and resting. Other causesBesides hot weather and strenuous activity, other causes of heat exhaustion include:
Risk factorsAnyone can develop heat exhaustion, but certain factors increase your sensitivity to heat. They include:
ComplicationsUntreated, heat exhaustion can lead to heatstroke, a life-threatening condition that occurs when your core body temperature reaches 104 F (40 C) or higher. Heatstroke requires immediate medical attention to prevent permanent damage to your brain and other vital organs that can result in death. PreventionYou can take a number of precautions to prevent heat exhaustion and other heat-related illnesses. When temperatures climb, remember to:
Why do I feel so hot and tired all the time?Feeling hot paired with unexplained weight fluctuation or feeling constantly tired or fatigued may be an indicator that your thyroid is overactive, and the issue will need to be troubleshot by a primary healthcare provider.
What illness causes you to be hot all the time?A problem with your thyroid gland could be to blame. With hyperthyroidism, the gland makes too much thyroid hormone. This speeds up the rate that your body turns fuel into energy, which makes you hot. You may be more thirsty, hungry, and sweaty, and your heart may race.
Why do I feel hot and tired but no fever?Feeling feverish or hot may be one of the first signs of having a fever. However, it's also possible to feel feverish but not be running an actual temperature. Underlying medical conditions, hormone fluctuations, and lifestyle may all contribute to these feelings.
What does it mean when your body always feels hot?When skin feels hot to the touch, it often means that the body's temperature is hotter than normal. This can happen due to an infection or an illness, but it can also be caused by an environmental situation that increases body temperature.
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