Many eagerly await the summer season, yet that same prediction can present health problems because of extreme temperatures. When extreme temperatures last for a prolonged period, your body may not have a chance to cool down, which can lead to a variety of health issues commonly referred to as summer heat illness symptoms. While most understand the obvious symptoms, like dizziness or excessive sweating, there are mostly hidden symptoms that can go unnoticed at first, leading to more severe or life-threatening complications.

More importantly, you must recognize the symptoms of summer heat-related illnesses and follow necessary steps to protect yourself and those you care about from them. In this blog, we will discuss both the most common and some hidden symptoms of summer heat illness symptoms, how to recognize them early, and what you can do to protect yourself. 

What Are Summer Heat Illness Symptoms?

Heat illness happens when your body tries to cool itself down during hot conditions and cannot and instead continues to work toward heat exhaustion and/or heat stroke. The symptoms range from fairly mild to catastrophic emergencies that could harm your health if you do not take measures to address them.

Common signs of summer heat illness symptoms include: 

• Excessive sweating
• Muscle cramps
• Exhaustion/tired
• Headache
• Dizziness/lightheadedness
• Nausea or vomitin
  
  There are also hidden symptoms that could also point to dangerous heat-related healt problems.
  
  
   

Hidden Summer Heat Illness Symptoms To Look Out For

In addition to paying attention to common or readily visible signs, you should pay attention to other less visible symptoms. The following are examples of hidden summer heat illness symptoms, which indicates that your health is likely deteriorating and worsening in a heat-related way:

Increased heart rate

Who Is at Risk of Heat Illness?

While anyone can suffer from heat-related illnesses, certain groups are more vulnerable to summer heat illness symptoms:

• Older adults, especially those over 65
• Infants and young children
• People with chronic illnesses like heart or lung conditions
• Outdoor workers and athletes
• Individuals taking medications that affect hydration or heat regulation

Taking extra precautions during hot days is essential for these groups.

How to Prevent Summer Heat Illness Symptoms

Prevention is always better than cure, especially during the hot summer months. Here are some practical tips to reduce the risk of heat illness:

• Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day.
• Avoid strenuous activities during peak heat hours (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.).
• Wear lightweight, loose-fitting, and light-colored clothing.
• Take frequent breaks in shaded or air-conditioned areas.
• Use sunscreen to prevent sunburn, which can worsen heat illness.
• Monitor yourself and family members for symptoms regularly.
   

When to Get Medical Help? 

If you or someone near you experiences severe symptoms such as confusion, fainting, body temperature above 103°F, and seizure, get emergency medical care right away. Heat stroke is a medical emergency and can potentially cause severe damage or even death if left untreated. 

Make Your Appointment at GEM Hospital 

If you have any persistent or severe symptoms of summer heat illness, then you should seek professional medical guidance without delay. GEM Hospital specializes in treating heat-related illnesses and can provide you with thorough care for your unique circumstances.

Book your appointment today so that you have your health tracked and managed by professional doctors that understand the dangers of extreme heat. Keep safe this summer by being aware of the hidden symptoms early and receiving timely treatment at GEM Hospital.