Signs That the Summer Heat Is Getting to You
Signs That the Summer Heat Is Getting to You Many people die from heat-related illnesses each year. One way to avoid that is to know the signs that the heat is getting to you. Keep reading to learn about protecting your health. Illness due to high temperatures is very serious. The body�s temperature regulation system kicks in to maintain a state of homeostasis (balance). When the weather is cold, it conserves heat to maintain a normal body temperature. When the weather gets hot, it uses different methods like sweating to cool off the body and lower your internal temperature. If the body is exposed to extremes of temperature, the regulating system can falter. This can lead to a variety of symptoms, and can even result in organ failure and death. Types of Heat Illnesses The best way to protect yourself is with knowledge. Here are some of the types of heat illnesses and their symptoms. 1. Heat exhaustion Heat exhaustion is not usually fatal but it can progress to a more serious condition. It is the way the body responds when it loses too much water and becomes dehydrated. It can happen during sports participation and even gardening - any outdoor activity that is intense and makes you sweat. Symptoms include: * Dizziness * Fatigue * Clammy skin * Weakness * Headaches * Fast pulse 2. Heat stroke Heat stroke is more serious than heat exhaustion. The cooling system in your body stops working completely. The body can no longer lower your temperature adequately, so it continues to rise to unsafe levels. Even people who are used to the heat can suffer from heat-related illness. Heat stroke can come on suddenly even if signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion are not present first. The symptoms of heat stroke include: * Dry skin that is hot to the touch * Lack of sweating * Rapid heartbeat * Confusion * Nausea and vomiting * Shortness of breath * Convulsions * Seizures * Coma 3. Heat cramps Many cramps are due to the build-up of lactic acid in the muscles. A lot of athletes especially can handle that. However, heat cramps are a little different. The cramps can be debilitating and severe. They can occur in feet, hands and calves. The muscles are so tense that it can be hard to massage away the pain. 4. Heat rash Also called prickly heat, it can occur in anyone and is a result of too much heat. It is not usually life-threatening but can lead to more severe heat illnesses. The rash appears as small prickly bumps on the skin, anywhere the body is clothed. They itch and can sting or burn. A rash that doesn�t disappear in a few days can lead to an infection in the area because of the trapped sweat. Your first line of defense against heat-related illnesses is to know the symptoms.