Signs & Symptoms of Heat Fatigue

Heat fatigue is a condition that occurs when your body cannot get rid of heat fast enough. Heat fatigue is a precursor to the more serious conditions of heat exhaustion and ultimately heat stroke. While heat fatigue is not a serious condition, heat stroke can require hospitalization and can even cause death if not treated. You should learn the symptoms of heat fatigue so you can treat them and not progress to a more serious condition.

Early Symptoms

• As the name heat fatigue indicates, the first symptom will be feeling more tired than your activity merits. You may start to have a slight headache. You will find that these conditions will persist even if you take a short rest.

More Serious Symptoms

• If you continue to participate in your activity, more serious symptoms may appear. You will find that you are sweating profusely. You may also find that your pulse rate is increasing rapidly. This may be accompanied by what feels like a pounding in your chest. You may also note that you are having a hard time catching your breath. Finally you may become disoriented or confused. You may find that you are having trouble organizing your thoughts and difficulty expressing ideas to others.

Treatment Options

• As soon as you recognize the symptoms of heat fatigue you should immediately try to rest in a cool shaded area. The best thing you can drink is a sports drink that replaces salts. The salts will help your body to eliminate heat. It is very important that you rest. If you continue your activity you can eventually have a stroke and need to be hospitalized.