Which of the following describes heat exhaustion?

Heat exhaustion is characterized by heavy sweating and weakness, making this description the most accurate. This condition typically arises when the body loses an excessive amount of fluids and salts through sweating, often due to prolonged exposure to high temperatures or strenuous activity without adequate hydration. Symptoms include fatigue, dizziness, headaches, and muscle cramps, which align closely with the sensation of weakness.

While heat exhaustion can escalate into more severe conditions, such as heat stroke, it does not classify as a severe medical emergency on its own. It does require attention and care to prevent further complications, but immediate hospital transport is not always necessary unless symptoms worsen or if the individual does not respond to initial treatment. Thus, heat exhaustion is indeed a significant health concern but is generally considered less severe than other heat-related illnesses.