Top signs of heatstroke

Now is the perfect time to spend time outdoors soaking up the summer sun. But without proper precautions, heatstroke can quickly ruin your day of fun. To keep your summer days heat-illness free, here’s what you’ll want to know about heatstroke:

Know Your Heat Stroke Risks
With most illnesses, knowing your risk factors is critical. Though anyone can be at risk for heat stroke, there are several things that can increase your chances. For instance, a significant risk factor is age. Children 4 years old and under, and adults over 65 years old are at a higher risk because they adjust to heat slowly than others. Certain medications, lack of air conditioning, and some health conditions can increase chances, too.

Causes of Heatstroke
By knowing your risk factors, you can properly take steps to ensure hydration is always at the top of your mind. Generally, heatstroke occurs because of two main situations: prolonged exposure to a hot environment and strenuous activity. When the heat index reaches above 90 degrees, heat-related illnesses increase.

Symptoms to Look For
The first sign of heatstroke is a high body temperature (often more than 104F degrees). Some other main symptoms to look out for include:

• Rapid heart rate
• Headache
• Rapid breathing
• Nausea or vomiting
• Altered mental state

If the body temperature remains high for too long, significant complications can occur, so it’s best to seek help as soon as symptoms are spotted.

Prevention Tips
The biggest key to prevention is to stay as hydrated as possible. Avoid excessively hot days, wear loose, breathable clothing, use proper SPF, and NEVER leave anyone alone in a parked car. If you have several risk factors, take extra precautions by acting quickly when signs of overheating occur.

If you are experiencing any signs of heat-illness, such as vomiting or fever, the Walk-in Clinic in Gillette, Wyoming is here to help.

We can provide you with the personal and quality care you need. Save your spot in line or walk-in today! Learn more at www.cchwyo.org/wic.

The Walk-in Clinic is a Campbell County Medical Group urgent care clinic with Campbell County Health.