Heat exhaustion can sneak up on anyone if they ignore the symptoms that lead up to it. With as quick as it can happen, it’s just as easily avoidable. Here are a few signs to keep an eye out for and stop heat exhaustion in its tracks.

Signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion include:

• Confusion

• Dark-colored urine (a sign of dehydration)

• Dizziness

• Fainting

• Fatigue

• Headache

• Muscle or abdominal cramps

• Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea

• Pale skin

• Profuse sweating

• Rapid heartbeat

Cooldown

If you or anyone you know begin to suffer any of these symptoms, immediately take them to a cool area and start working to cool their body off. Bring them to an air-conditioned room, a shaded area, a cool bath or shower, or have them sit down in front of a fan.

If symptoms don’t seem to improve in 10-15 minutes, immediately seek emergency medical care as untreated heat exhaustion can lead to heatstroke.

Heatstroke may lead to complications, such as:

• Damage to critical bodily organs

• Death

Heat exhaustion correlates with the heat index, which is how hot you feel when humidity and air temperature are combined. Higher levels of moisture hamper your body’s ability to evaporate sweat off the skin, how your body cools itself.

Heat exhaustion risk rises as temperatures reach about 90 degrees and higher. So it is essential to pay attention to upcoming weather patterns and take necessary precautions for, especially hot days.

Prevent heat-related illnesses by taking these steps:

• Wear lightweight, light-colored clothing, that has plenty of room for your skin to breathe.

• Wear SPF 30 sunscreen or better.

• Drink plenty of fluids (water, juice, sports drinks). Dehydration will amplify the effects of heat exposure. 

• Drink plenty of water before, during, and after activities.

• Avoid drinking caffeine or alcohol. Both of these substances make you lose more fluids.

• Take regular breaks to cool off.

Heatwaves don’t need to mean that you can’t enjoy the outdoors. With some easy precautionary steps to prepare your body and your surroundings, you can get any projects done or just plain have fun. Stay cool, and stay safe.

If you or a loved one is experiencing heat exhaustion or heat stroke symptoms, drop by one of our 10 locations, or click here to schedule a Telemedicine appointment.

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