Beyond Hot Flashes: Heat Illness

By: Red Hot Mamas

Published: July 15, 2013

We’re having a heat wave here. I very much enjoy the summer season. In fact, it is my favorite season of the year where I personally feel the happiest. However, I’ve felt the after effects of being out in the sun too long where my body wasn’t prepared to handle the soaring summer heat. Luckily, I have always had enough sense to go indoors or find a shady area to sit by. But, I think it’s important for all you Red Hot Mamas out there who may be having hot flashes, to become aware of a heat stroke, also called a sun stroke, from being out in the summer sun. Heat stroke may be fatal and should be taken seriously. It also requires immediate medical attention.

The Red Zone: Symptoms of Heat Stroke

If you’re out in the sun this summer, you should be aware of the warning signs of heat illness. These include:

• Headache
• Nausea
• Dizziness, confusion
• Cramps, weakness, rapid heartbeat and inability to function

If you feel any of the above symptoms while you’re out in the sun, seek shade and air conditioning immediately. Drink cold water and if the symptoms don’t subside, seek medical attention immediately. The best thing to do is avoid the problem altogether.

Beat the Heat: Avoid Heat Illness

You really can avoid heat illness by taking some easy precautions.

Stay out of the sun during the hottest hours of the day. Exercise in the morning or evening when it’s coolest outside.

Certain health conditions and medications can put you at a high risk for developing heat illness. Talk to your doctor about these.

Drink lots of fluids. Dehydration can lead to heat stroke. Avoid caffeine.

Wear loose-fitting, lightweight and light colored clothing. A hat and sunscreen should be part of your daily routine.

Let’s face it; summer is the time to enjoy the outdoors. Unfortunately, the oppressive heat can make it unbearable. Personally, I find my favorite time to be the cool evenings of summer when the sun isn’t as sweltering. Sit outside, enjoy an iced beverage, some conversation with friends and take it all in without worrying about getting too much sun and heat illness. It can be avoided!