What symptom is often associated with heat exhaustion?

Heat exhaustion is a condition that occurs when the body becomes overly heated, typically due to prolonged exposure to high temperatures, especially with physical activity in those conditions. One of the hallmark symptoms of heat exhaustion is a rapid heart rate. This occurs as the body attempts to cool itself down. The heart beats faster to pump more blood to the skin and extremities, where heat can be dissipated more effectively.

While other symptoms can accompany heat exhaustion, such as confusion, high body temperature, and in some cases, moist skin, the rapid heart rate specifically signifies the body's physiological response to overheating. It is important to recognize this symptom because it can help differentiate heat exhaustion from other heat-related conditions, such as heat stroke, where the body's systems are significantly more compromised.