Heat Exhaustion
Overview
Heat exhaustion is a heat-related condition marked by heavy sweating, fatigue, dizziness, and impaired performance resulting from prolonged exposure to hot environments. It reflects the body’s difficulty maintaining adequate cooling.
Key points
- Caused by fluid loss, electrolyte imbalance, and prolonged heat exposure.
- Symptoms include weakness, headache, nausea, and intense sweating.
- Requires rest, cooling measures, and rehydration.
- Can progress to heat stroke if untreated.
- Common during strenuous exertion in warm weather.
Details
Heat exhaustion develops when the body’s cooling mechanisms struggle to regulate internal temperature. Both physical exertion and environmental heat contribute to its onset. Early recognition is essential, as continuing strenuous activity can worsen the condition.
Cooling actions include moving to shade, loosening clothing, applying cool water, and drinking fluids. Electrolyte replacement may be necessary on long or intense hikes. Preventive measures include pacing, hydration strategies, and avoiding peak heat hours.
Disclaimer: thruhikingwiki.com is an independent, informational reference only. It is not an official source for any trail association, land manager, park, agency, or guide service. Nothing on this site is legal, safety, medical, navigation, or professional advice, and it does not replace formal training or certified instruction. Thru-hiking and backcountry travel involve significant risk. Local regulations, land manager rules, and manufacturer instructions always take priority. You are solely responsible for your planning decisions, safety practices, and compliance with applicable laws. Use this site at your own risk.
Illustrative hiking footage
The following external videos offer general visual context for typical hiking environments. They are not official route recommendations, safety instructions, or planning tools.