What are the symptoms of heat exhaustion?

Heat exhaustion is a condition that occurs when the body overheats, often due to prolonged exposure to high temperatures, especially when combined with high humidity and strenuous physical activity. The symptoms of heat exhaustion include pale and clammy skin, dizziness, and a rapid pulse.

Pale and clammy skin is a result of the body diverting blood flow to the core to maintain temperature regulation, leading to a combination of excessive sweating and loss of fluids. Dizziness occurs due to dehydration and decreased blood flow, while a rapid pulse indicates that the heart is trying to pump blood more quickly to maintain adequate circulation despite fluid loss. Recognizing these symptoms is crucial for intervention to prevent progression to heat stroke, which is a more severe and potentially dangerous condition.

The other options describe symptoms associated with different conditions. While fever and nausea may accompany heat-related illnesses, they are not typical symptoms of heat exhaustion specifically. Dry skin and confusion are more indicative of heat stroke, and severe headache with vomiting and fainting are also signs of heat-related illness but do not specifically pinpoint heat exhaustion, which typically presents with the milder symptoms listed in the correct choice. Understanding these distinctions is vital to respond appropriately to heat-related situations.