Summer is the time when many people are outdoors enjoying activities in the sun.
From running to boating to gardening and much more, summer can bring fun – but it can also bring risks that come from being in the heat.
Rising temps can sometimes cause heat-related illnesses like heat exhaustion and heat stroke, both of which can be common but also concerning.
Read on to learn the difference and how to protect yourself as well as when to seek out medical care.
Arm yourself with knowledge this summer
First off, let’s get into the difference between heat exhaustion and heat stroke.
Heat exhaustion happens when the body is overheated and loses water and electrolytes when you sweat excessively.
This often occurs when out in hot weather and when doing physical activity.
Symptoms of heat exhaustion include:
- Intense sweating
- Fatigue
- Weakness
- Rapid pulse
- Muscle cramps
- Clammy skin
- Fainting
- Dizziness or nausea
Heat exhaustion, fortunately, can be treatable when addressed early.
First steps include getting out of the heat and into a cooler space, hydrating and resting. This can help the condition from getting worse.
Heat stroke, on the other hand, is an emergency that requires prompt medical care. Heat stroke comes on when your body’s temperature internally goes up rapidly and cannot come down on its own.
In fact, those with heat stroke may not even be able to sweat.
Symptoms of heat stroke include:
- Confusion
- Seizures
- Rapid heartbeat
- Speaking difficulties
- Loss of consciousness
- Flushed skin
- Intense headache
Heat stroke is dangerous because it can cause damage to the brain, kidneys, heart and other body organs.
If you or your loved one appears to be having a heat stroke, you should call 911 right away.
For heat exhaustion, urgent care can provide a fast evaluation when treatment at home is not sufficient.
To keep yourself safe from the heat, stay hydrated, minimize strenuous physical activity in the heat, take breaks inside or in the shade and wear breathable clothing.
Urgent care is often a smart alternative to a PCP in non-emergent situations since you can typically be seen right away when it matters most. No hours or days or even weeks to be seen, as with some family medicine practices.
Our compassionate team of skilled medical professionals is here for you in your time of need this summer and all year long.
Don’t risk your health
Hot summer weather shouldn’t stop you from having fun in the sun, but it is key to understand when your body needs professional assistance.
We encourage you to stay safe and healthy this summer by taking the proper precautions in the heat.
However, when needs arise, Specialty Urgent Care is here for you if you need to be seen by a doctor quickly.
If you or your family member is showing symptoms of heat exhaustion, don’t wait. Come in for care right away.
With convenient locations and hours as well as short wait times, you can get on the road to recovery fast at Specialty Urgent Care.