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Heat Exhaustion

Doctor to Patient

Surviving A Heat Wave – Without Air Conditioning

Medical Author: Melissa Conrad Stöppler, MD
Medical Editor: William C. Shiel, Jr, MD, FACP, FACR

How to Keep Cool in the SummerIn summer, heat waves can strike areas of the country where cooler climates are the norm. In these areas, many homes do not have air conditioning, and surviving in the extreme temperatures becomes a challenge for everyone. The following steps can help you keep cool during a heat wave even if you have an air-conditioned home.

  1. Use box fans and ceiling fans to promote air circulation throughout your home. Opening doors in the house and using box fans to push hot air outdoors can function as an “exhaust” system and draw cooler evening air into the house. In the cooler evenings, open all windows and promote as much air circulation as possible. When the sun rises, close all doors and windows, making sure to close curtains and blinds as well, to keep the indoors cool for as long as possible. When the outside air cools to a lower temperature than inside (usually in the evenings or at night), open up the windows and turn on the fans again.
  1. Take advantage of the cooling power of water. Fill buckets or basins and soak your feet. Wet towels and bandannas can have a cooling effect when worn on the shoulders or head. Take cool showers or baths, and consider using a spray bottle filled with cold water for refreshing spritzes throughout the day.


Top Searched Heat Exhaustion Terms:

symptoms, signs, treatment, heat stroke, first aid, prevention, causes, tips, heat cramps
Doctor to Patient

Introduction to heat exhaustion

Heat exhaustion is a milder form of heat-related illness that can develop after several days of exposure to high temperatures and inadequate or unbalanced replacement of fluids. Those most prone to heat exhaustion are elderly people, people with high blood pressure, and people working or exercising in a hot environment.

Heat exhaustion symptoms

Warning signs of heat exhaustion include:

The skin may be cool and moist. The victim's pulse rate will be fast and weak, and breathing will be fast and shallow. If heat exhaustion is untreated, it may progress to heat stroke, which is a medical emergency. Seek medical attention and call 911 immediately if:

Otherwise, help the victim to cool off, and seek medical attention if symptoms worsen or last longer than 1 hour.

Heat exhaustion treatment

Cooling measures that may be effective include:

  • cool, non-alcoholic beverages, as directed by your physician

  • rest

  • cool shower, bath, or sponge bath

  • an air-conditioned environment

  • Lightweight clothing

Based on a CDC Prevention Guide for Emergencies and Disasters.


Last Editorial Review: 9/20/2006





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