Summer is always a good time to review the symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke. These conditions are very serious and symptoms can come on suddenly. Seek medical attention immediately for both conditions. Heat stroke can be fatal.
Heat Exhaustion symptoms:
Dizziness, confusion or anxiety
Fatigue
Headache
Muscle cramps
Excessive sweating, can have cold clammy skin
Slowed heart rate
Fainting
Nausea
Extreme thirst
Heat Stroke symptoms:
Nausea and vomiting
Decreased sweating with hot, flushed, dry skin
Dizziness, vertigo
Confusion and fatigue
Loss of consciousness or convulsions
Rapid heart rate and/or shortness of breath
Decrease urine or blood in the urine or stool
Headache
Raised body temperature (104 or higher)
If you suspect heat exhaustion, move the person to an air-conditioned or cool area and administer fluids. If they do not start to revive after a short period of time, seek medical attention. If you suspect heat stroke, seek medical attention immediately.
Many of us love to move our exercise outside during the summer. Summer sports or practices can also pose a threat. The key is to make sure that you stay hydrated and decrease your intensity on really hot days. Remember to dress in light-colored, breathable fabrics and to wear sunscreen. Make sure that you watch children carefully, as they may not recognize the signs easily or may ignore them if they are enjoying themselves. When dehydration or exertion is intense, water may not be enough. I often recommend Pedialyte or something similar for people who work outside on extremely hot days. Salt can also be helpful. Sports drinks are good too if they do not contain too much sugar. Excessive sweating depletes your body of more than just water. I do NOT recommend using sports drinks for every day workouts. They have too much sugar and are not necessary.
The best part of summer is all of the fun in the sun. Don't let heat exhaustion or heat stroke ruin your day!
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