Too much fun in the sun can be dangerous. Here’s how you can identify heat exhaustion & prevent it from ruining your summer plans. Stop by AFC today! 

Summers in East Tennessee are made for backyard barbecues, lake days at Chester Frost Park, and family-friendly adventures at Navitat Knoxville. But while you’re soaking up the sun, your body might be under more stress than you realize, especially if you’re not staying cool and hydrated. 

Heat exhaustion is one of the most common warm-weather health risks. And if it isn’t recognized and treated quickly, it can turn into heatstroke, which is a serious, and a potentially life-threatening, medical emergency. 

Let’s take a closer look at the signs of heat exhaustion, how it develops and how you can stay safe when temperatures rise. 

Visit an AFC East Tennessee clinic today.  

What Is Heat Exhaustion? 

Heat exhaustion occurs when your body overheats, usually due to extended exposure to high temperatures, high humidity and physical exertion. It’s often caused by dehydration and loss of electrolytes through heavy sweating, which prevents your body from cooling itself properly. 

While it might start out feeling like simple fatigue, heat exhaustion can get serious quickly if not addressed. 

Early Symptoms of Heat Exhaustion: 

• Dizziness or lightheadedness 
• Nausea or vomiting 
• Heavy sweating 
• Weakness or fatigue 
• Headache 
• Muscle cramps 
• Fainting 
• Pale, cool and clammy skin 
• Rapid but weak pulse 

Why Fast Action Matters 

Ignoring the early signs of heat exhaustion can lead to heatstroke, a dangerous condition that occurs when the body’s temperature regulation fails. Without treatment, heatstroke can cause organ damage, confusion, seizures and even loss of consciousness. 

One of the easiest ways to spot the difference between heat exhaustion and heatstroke is by checking how the skin looks and feels: 

• Heat exhaustion: Skin is cool, pale and clammy 
• Heatstroke: Skin is hot, dry or slightly moist, and body temperature rises to 104°F or higher 

If someone appears confused, stops sweating or loses consciousness, call 911 immediately. Heatstroke is a medical emergency, skip a trip to urgent care.  

Who is Prone to Heat Exhaustion? 

Heat exhaustion doesn’t only happen during intense workouts. It can sneak up during everyday summer activities, especially if you’re not paying attention to your body’s signals. While the humid Tennessee climate makes it hard for your body to cool off naturally. Some people are more vulnerable to heat exhaustion than others. 

These types of people include: 

• Younger children and elderly adults 
• People taking certain medications (diuretics, antihistamines, beta-blockers or antidepressants). 
• Those working or exercising outside (landscaping or construction jobs). 
• Individuals suffering from chronic conditions such as heart disease, diabetes and obesity 
• Those who may have recently moved to the East Tennessee area and are not familiar with the temperature.  

Prevention Tips for Heat-Related Illnesses 

The good news? Heat exhaustion and heatstroke are almost always preventable. Here’s how to stay ahead of the heat: 

• Stay hydrated: Drink water regularly throughout the day 
• Dress smart: Wear lightweight, light-colored, loose-fitting clothing 
• Avoid the heat: Take breaks in the shade or indoors, especially during midday 
• Wear sunscreen: Sunburn adds extra stress to your body and can increase heat risk 
• Ease into it: Don’t jump into intense outdoor activity without acclimating to the heat 
• Check the forecast: Be aware of heat advisories or extreme heat warnings 

When to Visit AFC East Tennessee 

If you’re experiencing signs of heat exhaustion and rest or fluids aren’t helping, don’t wait it out. Visit one of our AFC clinics in East Tennessee. Our team is trained to assess your symptoms, provide care and help prevent more serious complications. 

Select providers at our clinics also offer IV hydration therapy, which can be helpful if you’re feeling severely dehydrated or fatigued. 

Final Takeaways 

Heat-related illness is no joke, and it can affect anyone, from active adults and athletes to kids and seniors. By staying alert to the signs of heat exhaustion and taking action early, you can avoid an emergency altogether. 

This summer, make safety part of your outdoor routine. And if you’re not sure whether you’re dealing with heat exhaustion, dehydration or even sun poisoning, stop by for peace of mind.