During the summer, there is a difference between hot temperatures and dangerously hot temperatures. One thing that can be overlooked is how humidity can play a role in how heat affects the body. High temperatures and high humidity combined can lead to issues like heat exhaustion, heat stroke, and heat cramps. Knowing the signs and symptoms and how to prevent these ailments can be life-saving.
For same-day heat-related illness care, visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Cedar Grove. Our urgent care center is equipped to treat all non-life-threatening conditions on a walk-in basis. Simply stop by any day of the week during operating hours.
Heat Stroke, Heat Exhaustion, and Heat Cramps
All three of these ailments are caused by hot and humid weather. As the body struggles to keep itself cool or gets dehydrated a variety of symptoms can occur either separately or together. Heat cramps are painful cramps or muscle spasms that happen when you spend time outdoors in extreme heat. They are especially common for people who are exercising outdoors.
Heat exhaustion refers to when an individual experiences weakness or extreme fatigue due to temperature and humidity. Other symptoms that coincide with heat exhaustion include a fast or weak pulse, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, confusion, and fainting.
Heat stroke is a serious medical condition related to prolonged exposure to extreme temperatures. Heat stroke can cause throbbing headaches, dizziness, and loss of consciousness. A heat stroke happens when the body temperature rises above 103 degrees Fahrenheit. This extreme temperature can cause the body to shut down.
How To Identify Heat Exhaustion Symptoms
Heat exhaustion is a serious condition that can lead to more severe symptoms if not treated promptly. It’s crucial to recognize these symptoms and take immediate steps to cool down and rehydrate.
Common signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion in adults include:
- Heavy sweating
- Weakness and fatigue
- Dizziness and lightheadedness
- Headache
- Muscle cramps
- Nausea or vomiting
- Pale, cool, clammy skin
How Do You Treat Heat Exhaustion?
For someone experiencing mild symptoms like heat cramps or the early stages of heat exhaustion, you should go inside to a cooler environment. Ideally, you should find an air-conditioned room. If it is impossible to go indoors you should at least try to find a shaded area. Clothing should be loosened and you should place cool damp cloths around the body including areas like the armpits and forehead. Alternatively, a person can sit in a cool (not cold) bath. It is recommended that you take sips of water but be aware that nausea could cause someone to vomit. Take water slowly.
Heat stroke symptoms are much more severe and require immediate emergency treatments. If someone is having difficulty staying conscious you should call 911 or get them to an ER quickly. If you call 911, try to move the person into a cooler room while you wait for the ambulance.
Get Help With Heat-Related Health Issues at AFC Urgent Care Cedar Grove
Even for mild or moderate heat-related health problems, it can be helpful to visit a medical facility. A medical professional can ensure that you are healthy and provide treatments as necessary. If you have concerns related to heat exhaustion, sun poisoning, or other summer-related concerns, come visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Cedar Grove. Our team of board-certified medical professionals is available seven days a week to provide quality care to all patients in the Cedar Grove, NJ area and surrounding communities. Just walk-in today! We accept most health insurance plans and offer low-cost options for self-paying patients. If you have any additional questions about the summer services we provide, please contact our office directly at (973) 239-2300.
