Heat Exhaustion Treatment Specialist in West Moore OK, Norman (HealthPlex) OK, Norman (24th) OK, Edmond OK, Yukon OK, I-240 & Sooner RD OK, Tecumseh OK

As a result of overheating, heat exhaustion may cause heavy sweating and a rapid pulse. This is one of three heat-related syndromes, heat cramps are the mildest heat-related syndrome and heatstroke is the most severe.

Excessive physical activity and exposure to high temperatures can lead to heat exhaustion. Heat exhaustion without prompt treatment can lead to heatstroke, a potentially life-threatening condition. The good news, however, is that heat exhaustion can be prevented.

Some signs and symptoms relating to heat exhaustion develop suddenly while others present themselves over time, particularly if an individual is exercising for a prolonged period. Early signs of heat exhaustion can include cool and moist skin with goosebumps while in the heat, fatigue, heavy sweating, nausea, muscle cramps, and headaches. Other symptoms that may present include a weak and/or rapid pulse, low blood pressure while standing, and dizziness or faintness.

In some cases, you may be able to manage heat exhaustion on your own by taking some measures to relieve the symptoms. Take a break in a cool place. Finding a shady spot or sitting in front of a fan is best, but you can also get into an air-conditioned building. Lie on your back with your legs elevated above your heart level. Keep hydrated by drinking cool fluids.

Alcohol can cause dehydration, so avoid drinking it. Take steps to cool yourself down. Try taking a cool shower, soaking in a cool bath, or putting cool towels on your skin. You can lower your temperature by soaking in a cool pond or stream if you’re not near a shelter. Wear loose clothing. Wear lightweight and nonbinding clothing and remove any unnecessary clothing.

You should seek medical attention if you do not feel better within one hour of using these treatment measures. Get medical attention right away if you are not feeling well.

Medical personnel may detect heat exhaustion or take your rectal temperature to confirm the diagnosis and rule out heatstroke if you require medical attention due to heat exhaustion. Additional tests may be needed if your doctor suspects heat exhaustion has progressed to heatstroke.

Heat exhaustion usually improves within 30 minutes for most people. Medical attention should be sought if symptoms do not improve after 30–60 minutes. Heat exhaustion is treated with intravenous fluids and electrolytes administered by a doctor. A blood test and other clinical tests will be performed if fluids and rest do not resolve symptoms. It usually takes 24-48 hours for a person with heat exhaustion to recover fully if they are treated promptly.

Heat cramps are the first stage. The hands, calves, and feet are most often affected by severe muscle spasms following exertion. A muscle spasm may stop spontaneously, but soreness may persist for 24 to 48 hours afterward.

Heat exhaustion is the next stage. Heat exhaustion goes beyond feeling tired, as it results from exposure to high temperatures, humidity, and strenuous physical activity. When the body’s core temperature rises to 101-104 degrees Fahrenheit, heat exhaustion occurs.

Get medical help as soon as possible if you experience heat stroke, the last stage of the process. Heat exposure or physical exertion can cause this potentially fatal condition. 104 degrees Fahrenheit or higher is the threshold for a heat stroke.

Patients can get relief from any stage of heat exhaustion at Immediate Care of Oklahoma. Contact us through the pages of our website for heat exhaustion treatment. Our professional staff are here to help you with your medical needs. We serve patients from West Moore OK, Norman (HealthPlex) OK, Edmond OK, Yukon OK, I-240 & Sooner RD OK, Tecumseh OK, Norman (24th) OK, and Bethany OK.