Too Hot to Handle? How to Spot, Prevent, and Treat Heat Exhaustion

If you're feeling more like a baked potato than a thriving human this week—you're not alone! Across the country, heat waves are setting records and pushing our bodies to their limits. As someone passionate about health, I want to help you stay safe and hydrated. Whether you're gardening, chasing kids, walking dogs, or working outside, here’s what you need to know about heat exhaustion—what it is, how to prevent it, and what to do if it hits.

🔥 What Is Heat Exhaustion?

Heat exhaustion happens when your body overheats and can't cool down efficiently—usually from exposure to high temps and not enough hydration.

Common symptoms include:

• Heavy sweating

• Weakness or fatigue

• Dizziness or fainting

• Nausea or vomiting

• Muscle cramps

• Headache

• Cool, pale, clammy skin

• Rapid, weak pulse

If ignored, it can progress to heat stroke, which is a medical emergency.

💧 Prevention: Your First Line of Defense

1. Hydrate like it’s your job.
Don’t wait until you’re thirsty—by then, dehydration may have already started. I personally love using hydration support that helps replenish key electrolytes and minerals. Here’s my favorite one!

2. Dress smart.
Lightweight, light-colored, and breathable clothing is your best friend. Bonus points if it's also cute.

3. Time your outdoor activities.
Try to avoid the peak heat hours (usually 10 AM–4 PM). Mornings or evenings are safer for walks, gardening, and errands.

4. Seek shade and cool air.
If you’re outside for extended periods, take breaks in the shade or go indoors to cool off.

5. Listen to your body.
Feeling “off”? Don’t push through it. Stop, hydrate, and rest.

🚑 What To Do If You Suspect Heat Exhaustion

1. Move to a cooler location. Indoors or at least into the shade.

2. Loosen clothing. Remove excess layers and fan yourself.

3. Hydrate slowly. Sip cool water or an electrolyte beverage.

4. Apply cool cloths. Or even better—hop in a cool shower or bath.

5. Rest. Let your body recover and don’t rush back into activity.

If symptoms get worse or don’t improve within an hour, seek medical help.

🌿 Stay Cool, Stay Hydrated, Stay Well

Being proactive with hydration is a superpower—especially when it’s dangerously hot. I keep this hydration support linked here in my daily routine because it’s easy, tastes great, and actually works.

Let’s take care of ourselves and each other this summer. If you found this helpful, share it with a friend who’s out in the heat or send it to someone who still thinks coffee counts as hydration (spoiler: it doesn’t!).

✅ Helpful Resources:

• CDC: Extreme Heat - Symptoms & Safety Tips

• Red Cross: Heat Wave Safety

• NIH: Heat-Related Illness

With vitality & joy,

Terry

#BlueJeansandBerries