With the temperatures heating up, many of us will be spending more and more of our time outside. The summer is a great time to really enjoy the outdoors. A lot of us take this opportunity to swim, boat, hike, camp, and more. However, as fun as all this outdoor summer activity is, there is a threat that lurks around the proverbial corner.

Heat exhaustion is a dangerous and all too common occurrence during the summer. This can be a really bad thing and can lead to heatstroke which has the potential to be fatal. Before you head outside this summer, be sure you have a decent understanding of the common signs of heat exhaustion and how to mitigate it.

In essence, heat exhaustion is your body overheating. It can cause your pulse to speed up, cramps to set in, and for you to sweat profusely. Heat exhaustion happens most often when the temperature and humidity are high and those who don’t adequately hydrate themselves are at an increased risk of heat exhaustion.

Left untreated, heat exhaustion can lead to heat stroke with is a life-threatening problem. This is why it is so important to know the symptoms and treat them as soon as you notice them, so as to avoid the risk of something more dangerous occurring.

One of the most common symptoms of heat exhaustion is excessive sweating. Other symptoms may include cool skin that has goose bumps, even though it is hot outside. Heat exhaustion can also give you a head ache, nausea, muscle cramps, it can make you dizzy, tired, and even at risk of fainting.

As soon as you notice any of these symptoms, find a cool place to rest and hydrate as much as possible. Do not return to physical activity. Electrolyte-infused sports drinks are also a great way to replenish what is lost when you sweat excessively.

For many people, sitting down and stopping activity, cooling off, and getting hydrated is enough for them to feel better. However, if your symptoms start to worsen or they have not improved within an hour of ceasing activities and hydrating, it is advised to see a doctor just to ensure that there isn’t something bigger going on.

With the hot weather here, most of us are looking forward to getting outside to enjoy it. Whether we are going to the beach, camping, hiking, etc., there are so many activities that the summer brings us. But with these great things lurks the risk for heat exhaustion, which can be easily mitigated, though if left untreated can lead to very dangerous results such as heat stroke.

It is imperative that, before you head outside this summer, you know the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and what to do to mitigate the problem. This could literally save a life.

If you are in need of immediate medical help please dial 911. To find a local doctor please visit our directory on IPALC.org located at www.ipalc.org/find.