Feeling the heat: Protecting yourself from heat exhaustion
As summer stretches into its hottest weeks, the risk of heat exhaustion remains across much of the country. Whether you're working outdoors, attending sports practices or squeezing in one last trip to the beach, prolonged exposure to heat and humidity can take a toll on your body. Heat exhaustion is one of the most common heat-related illnesses, according to the CDC. Amongst these illnesses, which include heat cramps and heat rash, heat exhaustion is fairly mild when caught early. But when untreated, it can lead to more serious heat-related illnesses like heat stroke.
Recognizing the early symptoms, understanding prevention and knowing when to visit CareNow® urgent care can make all the difference.
What is heat exhaustion and what does it look like?
Heat exhaustion is one of several heat-related illnesses. These conditions range from mild dehydration to a more serious condition like heat stroke. When temperatures are high, being active outdoors can make you more susceptible to heat exhaustion. It happens most often in hot weather when you lose too much water and salt through sweat — this most often occurs during moderate or high-intensity levels of activity but can also happen with less rigorous activity. Without enough fluids to control your body temperature, your system begins to overheat.
- Headache
- Nausea
- Dizziness
- Weakness
- Irritability
- Thirst
- Heavy sweating
- Elevated body temperature
- Decreased urine output
In the middle stages of heat exhaustion, symptoms can become more intense: confusion, rapid heartbeat and worsening nausea are red flags that the body is no longer compensating effectively. These signs mean it’s time to stop, cool down and rehydrate immediately — or head to urgent care if symptoms don’t improve.
How urgent care can help
If caught early, heat exhaustion is treatable. At CareNow® urgent care, our clinics are open with extended hours and on weekends, so you can walk in when things don’t feel right — or check in online to minimize your wait.
Our medical team can:
- Evaluate symptoms
- Monitor vital signs
- Provide treatment
- Refer you to a higher level of care if needed
Timely care matters, so don’t wait if you or someone you love starts showing worsening symptoms.
Prevention tips to keep you safe this summer
The best way to handle heat exhaustion is to be proactive. Keep these prevention tips in mind:
- Hydrate early and often: Don’t wait until you're thirsty. Water is best, and electrolyte drinks help if you’re sweating heavily.
- Dress for the weather: Wear loose-fitting, light-colored clothes.
- Plan smart: Avoid outdoor activities during peak heat hours (usually 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.).
- Take breaks: Find shade, rest frequently and don’t push yourself in extreme temperatures.
- Check on others: Kids, older adults and pets are especially vulnerable.
Why heat exhaustion shouldn’t be ignored
If left untreated, heat exhaustion can turn into heat stroke — an emergency that can cause lasting damage to your brain, kidneys and heart. Heat stroke can be fatal if not treated right away.
That’s why it’s important not to ignore the signs. Feeling “off” in the heat isn’t just uncomfortable — it could be a serious warning from your body. Knowing the signs of heat exhaustion will help you to determine how to handle situations in which you or people around you are at risk. And if you find yourself in such situations, CareNow is here to help.
Why choose CareNow®
If you need convenient care after hours or on the weekend, consider visiting your local CareNow® urgent care clinic. With 225 locations throughout the country, we are ready to see you when you need it most. We offer comprehensive and accessible healthcare through our extensive clinic network, convenient Web Check-In® service and Virtual Visits, making us a dependable option for your medical needs. Visit the CareNow locations webpage to find a clinic near you.