These symptoms can quickly progress to extreme fatigue, headache, fainting, nausea, and vomiting. While this condition is best prevented by resting, eating, and drinking during one's hike, a hiker can slowly recover by following this same advice once symptoms develop. Full recovery, however, can take days. It is not advisable to hike during mid-day heat. Always carry a flashlight so that hiking after dark is a reasonable alternative.
More serious illnesses associated with desert hiking are water intoxication and heat stroke.
Water intoxication can occur when a person drinks excessive amounts of water and eats very little or not at all, creating an electrolyte imbalance. Consider using one of the many electrolyte drink mixes, such as Gatorade to supplement your water supply. Early symptoms include unusual or illogical behavior, elevated temperature, flushed appearance, and weak, rapid pulse. The condition can rapidly progress to unconsciousness, seizures, and death. Continuously pour water on victim's head and torso, fan to create an evaporative cooling effect, move victim to shade, and remove excessive clothing.