HEAT EXHAUSTION Meaning and
Definition
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Heat exhaustion is a medical condition characterized by a range of symptoms that occur as a result of prolonged exposure to high temperatures and inadequate fluid intake. It typically happens when the body's cooling system becomes overwhelmed and fails to properly regulate body temperature. Heat exhaustion arises when the body loses an excessive amount of fluid and electrolytes through sweating, leading to dehydration. This condition usually occurs in hot and humid weather conditions, during strenuous physical activity, or when an individual fails to hydrate adequately.
The symptoms of heat exhaustion can vary but commonly include excessive sweating, pale and clammy skin, weakness, fatigue, dizziness, headache, nausea, vomiting, muscle cramps, and a rapid heartbeat. If left untreated, heat exhaustion can progress to a more severe condition known as heatstroke, which is a life-threatening medical emergency.
To treat heat exhaustion, it is crucial to move the affected individual to a cool and shaded area, encourage them to drink plenty of fluids, and apply cool, wet towels to help lower body temperature. Rest, air conditioning, and elevation of the legs are also beneficial. In severe cases or when symptoms worsen, medical attention should be sought promptly.
Preventing heat exhaustion involves staying hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids, avoiding excessive physical exertion in hot environments, wearing loose and lightweight clothing, seeking shade or air-conditioned environments, and taking regular breaks to cool down.
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A form of heatstroke marked by symptoms of extreme prostration, a subnormal temperature, and collapse.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for HEAT EXHAUSTION
- geat exhaustion
- beat exhaustion
- neat exhaustion
- jeat exhaustion
- ueat exhaustion
- yeat exhaustion
- hwat exhaustion
- hsat exhaustion
- hdat exhaustion
- hrat exhaustion
- h4at exhaustion
- h3at exhaustion
- hezt exhaustion
- hest exhaustion
- hewt exhaustion
- heqt exhaustion
- hear exhaustion
- heaf exhaustion
- heag exhaustion
Etymology of HEAT EXHAUSTION
The word "heat" comes from the Old English word "hǣtu", which had the same meaning. "Exhaustion" comes from the Latin word "exhaustio", which means "a drawing off". In the context of heat exhaustion, it refers to the excessive loss of bodily fluids and energy due to exposure to high temperatures. Therefore, the term "heat exhaustion" combines these two elements, referring to the condition of extreme tiredness and physical distress caused by overheating.
Similar spelling word for HEAT EXHAUSTION
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