Heat Related Illness

It was a long, wet winter, and we are as excited as anyone to get out and enjoy the outdoors. The Magnolia Blossom Festival is a great time to enjoy South Arkansas sunshine with friends and family, just remember to prepare for the heat. With temperatures in the mid 90's, it will feel much hotter when all those grills fire up.

Heat related illnesses can occur without warning. Dehydration is the depletion of fluids and/or electrolytes in the body, and when coupled with warm temperatures and prolonged sun exposure, can lead to heat exhaustion. 

Early signs of dehydration and heat exhaustion include extreme thirst, dizziness, headache and muscle cramps. Left unrecognized, these can progress to nausea, fainting, the absence of sweating, and dark urine. Continued exposure can lead to seizures, confusion, shortness of breath and chest pains.

Here are some tips to avoid heat related illness:

· Drink plenty of water. Generally speaking, we should consume at least 64 ounces of water daily. That requirement goes up with sun exposure, physical activity and water loss from sweating. That means 64 ounces during a day outside is not enough.

· Keep skin covered as much as possible with loose-fitting clothing, hats, umbrellas, etc. Always wear sunscreen when planning to be outside for more than a few minutes. Sunburn or sunstroke can contribute to heat exhaustion.

· Limit physical activity. As the temperature rises, take time to get inside or at least into a shady area frequently.

Premier Urgent Care is proud to be the first aid provider for the Blossom Festival. We'd love for you to stop by and meet our friendly staff on Saturday. If you begin to suspect any of the symptoms of heat-related illness, please come by and let us take a look at you.