Heat is generated in the body when a person works or exercises. Under normal circumstances, the body cools itself by sweating. In this process, the sweat glands secrete sweat; the heat generated from the body evaporates the sweat resulting in a reduction in body temperature.

But sometimes due to prolonged exposure to high temperatures, the body loses a lot of water and electrolytes through excessive sweating. As a consequence, the body cannot cool itself any further. Decreased intake of fluids that contain adequate electrolytes can further complicate the condition, leading to heat exhaustion.