Conditions
Few things feel better than the summer sun after a long winter and rainy spring, but too much of this good thing can be dangerous. NextCare can help you understand the signs and symptoms of dehydration and heat exhaustion , how to treat it, and most importantly, how to prevent it, so you can enjoy every minute of your summer safely.
Heat Exhaustion & Dehydration
Heat exhaustion and dehydration often go hand in hand. Dehydration, which is a depletion or imbalance of fluids or electrolytes in the body, when coupled with extended exposure to sun or heat, can cause heat exhaustion.
Preventing Heat Exhaustion and Dehydration
If you know you will be exposed to high temperatures for an extended period of time, take these steps to prevent heat exhaustion and dehydration.
- Drink plenty of water. The general daily water intake recommendation is eight 8-ounce glasses of water a day for women, and 12 8-ounce glasses a day for men. This guideline varies depending on the fluids a person is getting from food and other beverages, as well as their level of physical activity (credit noah). As a rule, though, if you’re spending an extended period of time in high temperatures, you should consider eight glasses of water a day the minimum guideline.
- Wear loose-fitting, comfortable clothes.
- Cover up your skin from the sun as much as possible with clothing, hats, sun umbrellas, and always wear sunscreen. Sunburn or sunstroke can contribute to dehydration and heat exhaustion.
- Limit physical activity. When the heat index is high, be aware that excessive physical activity (and sweating) increases your risk of dehydration and heat exhaustion.
Signs of Heat Exhaustion” and Dehydration
Mild:
- Excessive thirst
- Headache
- Muscle cramping
- Dizziness
- Fatigue
Moderate:
- Nausea
- Pale skin
- Profuse sweating or inability to sweat
- Dry mouth and swollen tongue
- Decreased urine output
- Dark yellow or amber colored urine
Severe:
- Fever higher than 103°F
- Fainting
- Confusion
- Lethargy
- Seizures
- Difficulty breathing
- Chest or abdominal pains
- Rapid heartbeat or palpitations
Medical Treatment
Although mild heat exhaustion and dehydration can be treated without a trip to urgent care, the symptoms aren’t something to be taken lightly. Without proper intervention, severe heat exhaustion can progress to heatstroke, which can damage the brain and other vital organs, and even cause death. If your dehydration or heat exhaustion is severe, you may need a physician to administer IV fluids.
If you experience any of the severe heat exhaustion or dehydration symptoms listed above, or symptoms that persist greater than 30 minutes after self-treatment, visit your nearest ER.