Summer is definitely here!  I love this time of year, but it is certainly hot outside!  As temperatures rise as we move into July and August, be sure to take extra precautions if you plan to be outside in the heat to avoid overheating.

Heatstroke is caused by your body overheating through prolonged exposer or physical exertion in high temperatures.  Heatstroke is the most serious form of heat injury, occurring if your body temperature rises to 104° F or higher.  Symptoms of heatstroke include:  high body temperature, altered mental state or behavior, nausea and vomiting, flushed skin, rapid breathing, racing heart rate, headache, or alteration in sweating.

If you feel like you might be overheating, take immediate action to cool down by going indoors or into shade, removing excess clothing, and cooling with a cool shower, misting fan, wet towels, or cold pack.

Young children and older adults should take extra care to prevent heatstroke because their nervous systems are less able to cope with changes in body temperature, and they have a harder time remaining hydrated, which also increases risk.  Medication might also affect your body’s ability to stay hydrated and respond to heat.  Be sure to monitor your response to heat if you are on medication to regulate your blood pressure or a diuretic.

Heatstroke is easily preventable this summer.  Take these steps to make sure you can enjoy the summertime:

• Wear loose-fitting, lightweight clothing.
• Protect against sunburn. Sunburn affects your body’s ability to cool itself, so be sure to wear sunscreen and a wide-brimmed hat.
• Drink water! Staying hydrated will help your body sweat and maintain a normal temperature.
• Never leave anyone in a parked car. Temperatures in your car can rise 20° F in 10 minutes.  A child’s body temperature rises 3 to 5 times faster than an adult’s, so they are much more vulnerable to heatstroke in a hot car.

Stay hydrated and cool to ensure that you can enjoy all the fun things summer has to offer!