This article is for general awareness and is not medical advice or a substitute for evaluation by a qualified doctor. In an emergency in Saudi Arabia, call 997 immediately.
Heat exhaustion
Signs include heavy sweating, fatigue, dizziness, headache, nausea, and muscle cramps. First aid: move the person to a cool place, give them water if they are conscious, and cool their body with water or compresses.
Heatstroke: an emergency
Signs include a very high body temperature, hot skin, confusion or loss of consciousness, and sweating may stop. Call 997 immediately, and start cooling the person until the ambulance arrives.
Most at risk
- Older adults and young children.
- People who work outdoors.
- People with heart disease, diabetes, or kidney disease, and those taking diuretic medications.
Prevention
- Drink water throughout the day; don't wait until you're thirsty.
- Avoid direct sun around midday.
- Wear light-colored, loose clothing.
- Never leave anyone, especially a child, in a closed car, even for a few minutes.
Read also: Caring for older adults at home.
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