It’s summertime in south Arkansas, which means the temps are hot, humid, and some days, intolerable. Signs and symptoms of heat related illnesses can vary. Premier Urgent Care offers IV hydration therapy. Read on to learn more about heat related illness and how we can help.
It’s summertime in south Arkansas, which means the temps are hot, humid, and some days, intolerable. This type of weather can cause heat related problems, such as muscle cramping, dehydration, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke. Anyone can suffer from a heat related illness, but the most susceptible are the very young, the very old, intense athletes, and those who have prolonged outdoor work. These groups of people must use caution when subjected to such conditions.
Our bodies are not equipped to withstand large increases in our core body temps, which happens with heat related issues. When our core body temp rises, we sweat, which is the body’s largest cooling mechanism. Dehydration can cause a decrease in the body’s ability to produce sweat. Some medications such as antihistamines, diuretics, stimulants, and blood pressure meds can impair the body’s cooling mechanisms. If you take any of these medications on a daily basis, be sure to consult with your provider before any prolonged heat exposure.
Signs and symptoms of heat related illnesses can vary. Dehydration and heat exhaustion may cause you to feel thirsty, and you may become dizzy and feel very fatigued. Heat stroke is a medical emergency, and symptoms may include increased heart rate, flushing of the skin, nausea and vomiting, severe dizziness, altered mental status, and a positive loss of consciousness. If you are experiencing symptoms of a heat stroke, this is an emergency. Call 911 or have someone drive you to the nearest emergency room.
To avoid heat related illnesses, seek shade or cool areas and avoid prolonged heat exposure, if at all possible. If you work in the heat, take frequent breaks. Wear light, loose fitting clothing. Drink plenty of water. If you wait until you feel thirsty, you may already be dehydrated. Avoid drinking alcohol. Remember to always wear sunscreen and reapply it often. Premier Urgent Care offers IV hydration therapy. If you feel like you may have “overdone it,” we can have you feeling better in no time with IV fluids. No appointment is necessary. Remember, if you feel you may be having a heat stroke, this is a medical emergency, and you need to be seen at the closest emergency room.
