Spending time outdoors during the summer can have many benefits– until your body starts struggling to keep up with the heat. Heat exhaustion is a common condition that occurs when your body becomes overheated and dehydrated, typically due to high temperatures and prolonged physical activity. If caught early, it’s treatable and manageable. But if ignored, it can lead to heatstroke, a medical emergency. In this blog, we’ll explain how to recognize the early warning signs of heat exhaustion so you can take fast action to protect your health.
For same-day heat-related illness treatment, visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Denver Speer. Our medical team is available 7 days a week to diagnose and treat your condition. Just walk-in or plan your visit in advance below.
What Is Heat Exhaustion?
Heat exhaustion happens when your body loses too much water and salt through sweating, and your cooling system can no longer keep up. This typically occurs during hot, humid weather or when you’re doing physical activities outdoors without enough rest or hydration. While it’s not as severe as heatstroke, heat exhaustion should never be taken lightly, as it’s your body’s signal that it’s under serious stress.
Early Symptoms of Heat Exhaustion
Recognizing heat exhaustion in its early stages is key to preventing more serious complications. The symptoms may start out mild, but they can progress quickly if you don’t cool down and rehydrate. Here are the early stages to watch for:
- Heavy Sweating: One of the first signs of heat exhaustion is excessive sweating, especially if you’re not used to hot weather or physical exertion.
- Weakness, Fatigue, Headache: You may feel suddenly tired, lightheaded, or like you’re about to collapse. Fatigue is your body’s way of telling you it needs to rest and cool down. Heat can also trigger headaches due to dehydration or overheating.
- Cold, Pale, Clammy Skin: Even though your body is overheating, your skin might feel cool and damp due to heavy sweating.
- Nausea or Vomiting: An upset stomach in the heat can signal that your body is struggling to regulate itself.
- Rapid, Weak Pulse: As your body works harder to cool down, your heart rate may rise. A fast but weak pulse is a sign that your circulation is affected.
What To Do If You Notice These Signs
If you or someone around you is displaying signs of heat exhaustion, follow these steps:
- Move to a cooler, shaded, or air-conditioned area
- Lie down and elevate your legs slightly
- Drink cool water or electrolyte drinks
- Apply cool, damp clothes to the skin or use a fan to help cool down
- Loosen or remove excess clothing
If symptoms do not improve within 30 minutes, or if they worsen, it’s important to seek medical care. An urgent care provider can assess your condition, provide IV fluids and electrolyte replacement, and ensure you’re not progressing toward heatstroke.
Get Heat-Related Illness Treatment at AFC Urgent Care Denver Speer
Heat exhaustion can develop quickly in hot weather– but it’s also very treatable when recognized early. Knowing the signs of heavy sweating, dizziness, and nausea can help you respond before things get worse. If your symptoms don’t improve or you’re feeling unsure, AFC Urgent Care Denver Speer is here to help with fast, effective treatment. Stay safe this summer and visit our center any day of the week with no appointment required. Timely intervention can help ensure a faster and more effective recovery. If you have any additional questions about heat exhaustion treatment, or other services our team provides, please contact us directly at (303) 733-4000.
