Summer is here, and that means high temperatures and hot sun. It’s great to take advantage of the weather while you can, but it’s also important to be aware of the dangers. Overheating can lead to symptoms of heat stroke, heat exhaustion, sunstroke, or dehydration, all of which are serious medical conditions that require immediate treatment.
Awareness is key to staying safe in the summertime. Here are three things to keep in mind while you’re getting ready for the Texas summer.
1. Know the symptoms.
Heat exhaustion symptoms include nausea, fatigue, muscle cramps, vomiting, or headache. If you’ve been exposed to the heat and have any of these symptoms, move to a cooler area immediately and drink cool water.
Knowing the signs of heat stroke is also important in order to obtain proper medical attention. Heat stroke symptoms include a throbbing headache, hot skin, lack of sweating, dizziness, nausea, and vomiting, and rapid breathing and heartbeat. If you experience any of these symptoms, contact a medical professional immediately.
2. Stay hydrated.
Dehydration is dangerous because people often don’t feel it coming on until it’s too late. Symptoms of dehydration include thirst, headache, dizziness, dry mouth, and exhaustion.
Dehydration can be treated by drinking fluids such as water or Gatorade that are made to hydrate you and replenish your electrolytes. You should continue drinking fluids throughout the day to replenish the ones you’ve lost.
3. Cool off.
If you fear you’re becoming overheated, move to a cooler area immediately. Check in on the elderly or anyone you know who might not have air conditioning to make sure they’re staying cool. If necessary, there are cooling centers available across Texas that will let you come in and cool off for free.
In the event of a medical emergency, head to your nearest emergency facility. The helpful staff at Angleton ER will be able to give you the treatment you need to get back on your feet and out into the sunshine.