Heat Exhaustion
Heat exhaustion occurs when your body gets too hot. The hypothalamus, part of the brain that controls thirst ,hunger and the body’s core temperature is stimulated. Normally the body cools itself by sweating. When you are exposed to high temperatures for a long time and you do not replace the fluids you lose through sweating;the body system that regulates temperature become overwhelmed. As a result your body produces more heat than it can release. Heat exhaustion requires immediate attention since it can be life threatening.
SIGNS AND SYMPTOM
- Heavy sweating
- Fatigue
- Headache
- Thirst
- Rapid heartbeat
- Dizziness, fainting
- Body weakness
- Muscle cramps
PREVENTION
- Try to stay in cool or air conditioned spaces on hot days
- Drink plenty of fluids
- Take frequent short breaks when working in hot conditions
- Wear loose lightweight clothing
- Wear long sleeves
