How to Treat Heat Exhaustion

/ Minor illnesses, Urgent Care Services / By

How to Treat Heat Exhaustion

We’re all finally glad summer’s here. The weather’s warmer, we’re seeing the sun more than once a few months, and we’re feeling a slight bit more active. But staying under the sun or being exposed to heat for a prolonged period of time can be very dangerous. This summer, keep yourself and your family safe by knowing what the symptoms of heat exhaustion are and how to treat it.

Symptoms

Heat exhaustion can occur if you are exposed to high temperatures and physical activity, in addition to dehydration. Your body can be very easily exposed to these especially in hot summers. It is important to be aware of these symptoms to prevent heat exhaustion and to notice when it is happening. Symptoms include the following:

  1. Confusion
  2. Dehydration: usually, urine will obtain a darker color
  3. Headache
  4. Fatigue and tiredness
  5. Dizziness and faintness
  6. Abdominal cramps
  7. Rapid heartbeat
  8. Excessive sweating
  9. Pale skin

Treatment of heat exhaustion

If heat exhaustion is left untreated, it can cause heat stroke, which is a more fatal heat-related illness. If you experience these symptoms or suspect heat exhaustion, take these steps immediately:

  • Drink plenty of fluids (avoid caffeinated or alcoholic beverages)
  • Move to a cooler area
  • Remove any tight clothing
  • Cool your body by taking a cool water shower or bath (however be very careful if you are feeling faint or dizzy)
  • Stop any physical exercise or activity and get some rest

Difference between heat exhaustion and heat stroke

Heat stroke occurs when the body temperature is at or above 104º F and it is life threatening if not treated immediately. Symptoms of heat stroke include:

  1. Throbbing headache
  2. Confusion
  3. Red and hot skin
  4. Nausea or vomiting
  5. Rapid heartbeat
  6. Rapid, shallow breath
  7. Muscle weakness
  8. Seizures

If heat stroke is left untreated, it can lead to organ damage, muscle damage and can even be fatal. If heat stroke is suspected, call 911 immediately as the person needs to be taken to the hospital. While waiting for the ambulance, move the affected person to an air-conditioned or cooler place. Use cooling strategies like applying ice packs to the patient’s armpits, neck, groin and back as these areas have high blood vessels. There are many other cooling techniques, including fanning the patient while wetting the skin or immersing the patient in a ice or cool water tub.

Prevention

Summer is fun, and no one wants something like heat exhaustion ruining their sunny day. Fortunately, heat exhaustion is preventable. Follow these measures to monitor and prevent yourself or your family from getting this dangerous heat-related illness:

  • Wear light-weight and loose clothing, and a hat if you expect to be under the sun for a long time
  • Use sunscreen
  • Drink lots of fluids. Dehydration can be very dangerous and can cause heat exhaustion. However, monitor your salts, as salt depletion can also be a cause of heat exhaustion. Be sure to drink fluids that are rich in electrolytes, like sport drinks.
  • Avoid excessive amounts of caffeine or alcohol as these may also contribute to dehydration.

If you notice or experience any of these symptoms, be sure to treat them as soon as possible. Again, do not let symptoms of heat exhaustion worsen as they can lead to heat stroke. Keep yourself and your family safe this summer by taking being aware of prevention and treatment if necessary.

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