As summer heats up—and with the increasing number of heat waves across the country—heat-related illnesses like heat exhaustion and heat stroke are valid concerns. Do you know the difference between heat rash and heat cramps? What about the signs of heat exhaustion versus heat stroke?

The body’s average core temperature is 98.6 degrees Fahrenheit. When we sweat, our bodies regulate our core temperature to cool us off. Due to extreme heat, high humidity, and/or strenuous exercise or activity, our bodies can overheat and struggle to regulate our core temperature. When the fluids lost through sweat aren’t replaced, the body can’t naturally cool itself down and heat-related illnesses can occur.

Don’t let heat-related illnesses interfere with your summer plans. Know how to recognize and treat symptoms, so you can enjoy the summer to its fullest.

Heat Rash

Also called prickly heat, this mild rash results when sweat gets trapped under the skin and creates small, itchy bumps, similar to pimples. Heat rash most often occurs in babies and toddlers but can affect adults as well. Keep the affected area cool and dry. Calamine lotion can help with the itching. The rash should clear up in a few days but see your doctor if it doesn’t.

Heat Cramps

Muscle cramps in the legs, arms, or abdomen may be heat-related. Due to the loss of fluids and electrolytes during intense activity, these spasms serve as an early-warning sign that your body is overheating. Stop your activity, get out of the heat, and gently massage the tight muscle. Replenish electrolytes with a sports drink, granola bar, or banana. Your muscles should relax after a few minutes but may feel residual soreness.

Heat Exhaustion

The most common form of heat-related illness, heat exhaustion occurs when your internal body temperature is abnormally high, but still below 104 degrees Fahrenheit.

Common symptoms include:

• Heavy sweating

• Fatigue

• Dehydration

• Rapid, thready pulse

• Fast heart rate

• Hyperventilation

• Cold and/or clammy skin

• Turning pale or ashen

• Feeling faint or dizzy

• Headaches or nausea

Treatment

Heat exhaustion can escalate to heat stroke, which may be life threatening. Don’t ignore the signs or try to push through. Treat symptoms immediately and seek medical attention.

• Call for medical assistance

• Stop all activity and rest

• Move into the shade or a cooler, air-conditioned space

• Loosen or remove clothing

• Apply cool, wet towels to your skin

• Replenish fluids by drinking water or sports drinks. Take small, slow sips; don’t chug!

Heat Stroke

The most severe heat-related illness, heat stroke is life-threatening and requires immediate medical attention. It occurs when your body overheats—typically above 104 degrees Fahrenheit—and can’t cool down. Heat stroke affects your brain function and may cause severe damage to major organs like lungs, kidneys, heart, or liver.

Symptoms are similar to heat exhaustion, and include:

• Confusion or delirium

• Weakness, dizziness, or fainting

• Blurred vision or slurred speech

• Fast heart rate

• Fast, shallow breathing

• Low blood pressure

• Nausea and vomiting

• Seizures

• Becoming flushed or paler than usual

• Behavioral changes such as agitation or aggression

Treatment

Heat stroke requires treatment in an emergency room. If you think you or someone you are with is experiencing heat stroke, call 911 immediately and begin cooling them down. Do not give them anything to drink, as they may aspirate.

Make Hydration Part of Your Summer Wellness Plan

You don’t have to wait until you feel depleted to think about hydration. The Level Wellness team can help you prepare for summer travel, outdoor activities, athletic events, and demanding workdays with individualized hydration and recovery recommendations, including our Summer Hydration IVs & LMNTs Package. Contact Level Wellness to get started today.