What are the signs of heat exhaustion?

Heat exhaustion is a condition resulting from excessive heat exposure, leading to dehydration and loss of electrolytes. The signs of heat exhaustion primarily include pale, cool, and clammy skin due to the body's attempt to cool itself through sweating. As the body's internal temperature rises, the skin may become damp from sweat while the surface remains cooler than normal, which indicates that the body is struggling to maintain a stable core temperature.

In contrast, fever and chills are generally associated with infections or illnesses, rather than heat exhaustion. Coughing and shortness of breath are symptoms of respiratory or cardiac conditions, not heat-related illnesses. Muscle cramps and tightness can occur during physical exertion in the heat, but they are not specific indicators of heat exhaustion itself. Recognizing the correct signs of heat exhaustion is crucial for timely intervention and treatment to prevent more severe heat-related illnesses, such as heat stroke.