A female jogger in 100 F ambient temperature reports dizziness, dry tongue, rapid pulse, and thirst. Which heat emergency is most likely?

• A. Heat exhaustion
• B. Heat stroke
• C. Heat cramps
• D. Dehydration

Answer: (A)

Exertional heat illness in hot conditions is being tested here. The combination of dizziness, rapid pulse, thirst, and a dry tongue after being active in 100 F suggests dehydration from sweating with the body’s heat stress, which most commonly shows up as heat exhaustion. In heat exhaustion, you’re dealing with fluid and electrolyte losses from sweating, which can cause lightheadedness or dizziness and a fast heart rate as the body tries to perfuse itself despite the heat.

Heat stroke would show more dramatic changes in mental status (confusion, agitation, collapse) and usually hot, dry skin due to a failure of cooling. Heat cramps are painful muscle spasms related to electrolyte imbalance, not typically the primary features here. Dehydration alone can cause thirst and a dry mouth, but the scenario’s dizziness and tachycardia during heat exposure fit heat exhaustion better.

If this is happening, move the person to shade or a cooler place, have them sip cool fluids if able, remove excess clothing, and monitor for any progression toward heat stroke (changes in mental status, very hot skin, or collapse).