Loss of water via sweating could cause heat cramps. Heat exhaustion happens from overexercising, which causes the body to lose fluids. The blood flow to skin increases, while its flow to vital organs decreases. This can cause mild shock, leading to heat stroke, unless treatment takes place. Cooling the person with wet cloths and drinking small amounts of cool water at 15-minute intervals is early recommended treatment.
Heat stroke is life threatening because the person's temperature control system stops working.
The body needs cooling quickly. Emergency medical assistance is needed. Heat exhaustion and heat stroke should not be taken lightly. Elderly persons, chronic invalids, those on certain medications and people with weight problems and alcohol problems are particularly susceptible to reactions during heat waves. Dress in light weight clothing to help your normal body temperature.