How to keep cool in the hot summer days!



Heat Illness


When spending time out in the sun it's not uncommon to become fatigued quicker than normal because of the heat and direct sun exposure. Usually, this is nothing to worry about, but too much heat exposure could lead to heat related illnesses. When your body overheats, usually because of high temperature, physical exertion or high humidity, your body is at risk of developing a heat illness.


The first and most common heat illness is heat cramps. Symptoms include:

  • Fatigue

  • Heavy sweating
  • Thirst
  • Muscle cramps


If you are experiencing heat cramps you should go somewhere that is cool and out of direct sunlight. You should drink lots of water and rest. Fluids that contain electrolytes could also be beneficial.


When heat cramp symptoms are ignored, heat exhaustion is likely to occur. Symptoms of heat exhaustion include:

  • Weakness, dizziness, or fainting
  • Heavy sweating
  • Cold, clammy, or pale skin
  • A weak, rapid heartbeat
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Muscle cramps


If you experience symptoms of heat exhaustion, you should get out of the heat, drink lots of water, and rest. Though dangerous, heat exhaustion is not usually lethal. You should contact your healthcare provider if you are experiencing multiple symptoms, if symptoms do not get better after an hour, or if your temperature reaches 104 degrees.


Heat exhaustion should be thought of as a warning for heat stroke. If not taken care of heat exhaustion can quickly turn into heat stroke, a very serious health risk. Heat stroke can also occur without warning, with no heat exhaustion symptoms first. Heat stroke is characterized by the following symptoms:

  • An internal temperature of 104 or higher
  • Heavy sweating with clammy skin or no sweating with dry, red skin
  • Racing heartbeat
  • Rapid, shallow breathing
  • Weakness, dizziness, or fainting
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Muscle cramps
  • Confusion or headaches


If you are experiencing heat stroke symptoms it is very important to contact medical help immediately, as it could be life-threatening. Call 911 or contact another emergency medical source. While waiting for medical aid it is helpful to move somewhere cool or shaded and remove excess clothing. You could attempt to cool off by applying cool water or ice packs to your skin. Do not drink any fluids until medical help has arrived.


Luckily, heat illness prevention is not difficult. Being well hydrated, taking it easy when it is especially hot, and paying attention to your body can go a long way in avoiding heat illness. If you have questions on this, spine concerns, or any other health topic the doctors at Gallatin Valley Chiropractic are more than happy to consult with you. So go enjoy the nice weather and stay healthy!


Call us: 406-551-2177

Schedule online at: https://appointments.mychirotouch.com/?clinic=GVCL0001

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