d. Give Water and Salt. If the casualty is not nauseous or the nausea has
passed, give him water and salt to restore the body's natural fluid and salt balance.
Dissolve 1/4 teaspoon of loose salt (same as one packet of salt from rations) in a
canteen (one quart) filled with cool water. Have him drink the entire canteen over a one
hour period. If no salt is available, have the casualty drink plain water. If he is still
thirsty after drinking the salt solution, allow him to drink cool, unsalted water.
e. Observe Casualty. Observe the casualty until the cramps disappear.
f. Evacuate, if Needed. If the casualty continues to have severe cramps,
evacuate him to a medical treatment facility. If you have a Field Medical Card, enter
pertinent information on the form and attach the form to the casualty's clothing.
Section VI. HEAT EXHAUSTION
4-20. DEFINITION/CHARACTERISTICS
Heat exhaustion is a condition caused by excessive loss of water from the body
(usually from sweating) without the water being adequately replaced. It usually occurs
in otherwise fit individuals who are performing tasks requiring heavy physical work in a
hot environment. Heat exhaustion is more serious than heat cramps, but the person will
recover if the lost body fluid is replaced and if heatstroke does not develop.
4-21. SIGNS/SYMPTOMS
a. Most Common Signs and Symptoms. A casualty with heat exhaustion will
usually:
(1)
Perspire heavily.
(2)
Feel weak and dizzy.
(3)
Have skin that is pale and cool to the touch.
(4)
Have a headache.
b. Other Signs and Symptoms.
(1)
Loss of appetite.
(2)
Heat cramps.
(3)
Mental confusion.
(4)
Nausea (urge to vomit) with or without actual vomiting.
MD0587
4-12