Heat exhaustion and heatstroke
Who's most at risk?
Anyone candevelop heat exhaustion or heatstroke during a heatwave or while doing heavy exercise in hot weather. However,some people are at a higher risk.
These include:
- elderly people
- babies and young children
- people with along-termhealth condition, such as diabetes or a heart or lung condition
- people who are already ill and dehydrated (for example, from gastroenteritis )
- people doing strenuous exercise for long periods, such as military soldiers, athletes, hikers and manual workers
You're more likely to experience problems if you're dehydrated, there's little breeze or ventilation, or you're wearing tight, restrictive clothing.
Certain medications can also increase your risk of developing heat exhaustion or heatstroke, including diuretics, antihistamines , beta-blockers , antipsychotics and recreational drugs, such as amphetamines and ecstasy.
Medically Reviewed by a doctor on 21 Dec 2018
Introduction
Heat exhaustion and heatstroke are two potentially serious conditions that can occur if you get too hot. They usually happen during a heatwave or in a hot climate, but can also occur when you're doing very strenuous physical exercise.
Signs and symptoms
Heat exhaustion or heatstroke can develop quickly over a few minutes, or gradually over several hours or days. Signs of heat exhaustion can include: tiredness and weakness feeling faint or Lighthe
What to do
If you notice that someone has signs of heat exhaustion, you should: get them to lie down in a cool place such as a room with air conditioning or somewhere in the shade removeany unnecessary clo
When to get medical help
Severe heat exhaustion or heatstroke requires hospital treatment. You should call 999 for an ambulance if: the person doesn't respond to the above treatment within 30 minutes the person has s
Who's most at risk?
Anyone candevelop heat exhaustion or heatstroke during a heatwave or while doing heavy exercise in hot weather. However,some people are at a higher risk. These include: elderly people babies and y
How to prevent heat exhaustion and heatstroke
Heat exhaustion and heatstroke can often be prevented by taking sensible precautions when it's very hot. During the summer, check for heatwave warnings, so you're aware when there's a potential dange
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