Don’t Sweat the Small Stuff, Unless it’s Heat Stroke

The cold pool water, chilled watermelon, and a nice shady tree are a few things that we often group with summer. But what about heat stroke, dehydration and the fear of passing out? With all the exciting aspects of summer, there are some that are not so fun.

So, what can you do to beat the heat this summer and still have a ball? Here are some ways you can chill out—and know when you’re burning up:

How to know if you’re overheating:

• Sweating heavily
• Fatigue
• Dizziness
• Weak or rapid pulse
• Nausea
• Headache
• Faintness
• Cool skin with goosebumps when in the heat
• Low blood pressure when standing

What to do if heat exhaustion occurs:

• Find a fan, shady spot or air-conditioned building to rest in.
• Drink cold water or sports drinks. Stay away from alcoholic beverages, these drinks can make you more dehydrated.
• Remove any clothing that is unnecessary or loosen clothing that is necessary.
• Try other cooling measures such as taking a cold bath or putting a cold cloth on the back of your neck.

Be proactive:

• Wear loose fitting, lightweight and nonbinding clothing.
• Use broad-spectrum sunscreen and apply generously.
• Drink plenty of (preferably) chilled beverages.
• Be cautious when it comes to certain medications—some may have sun complications.
• Limit the amount of time that you exercise in the heat.

Don’t forget, heat stroke is an emergency! When things start to heat up, trust your medical professionals to help cool things down. Do not wait to get baked by the sun, take preventative measures against heat stroke now.

Visit Bayhealth.org/Community-Health-and-Wellness for more stories like this.