Hot weather increases fluid loss and places additional strain on the cardiovascular system. Risk rises with strenuous outdoor activity, older age, pregnancy, certain chronic diseases and some medications.
Hydrate before you become depleted
Drink regularly during hot conditions rather than waiting until you are extremely thirsty. Water is appropriate for most routine daily activity. During prolonged heavy sweating, electrolyte replacement may sometimes be useful, particularly with endurance activity or significant fluid loss.
Pace the environment, not just the exercise
Move demanding activity to cooler parts of the day, seek shade, wear lightweight clothing and take breaks. Never leave children, older adults or animals in a parked vehicle.
Know heat-illness warning signs
Dizziness, weakness, headache, nausea, confusion, collapse or inability to cool down deserve attention. Confusion, altered consciousness or severe overheating can indicate a medical emergency.
Seek urgent help for confusion, collapse, severe weakness, persistent vomiting or suspected heat stroke. Ask your clinician how heat may interact with diuretics, blood-pressure medicines or other long-term treatment.
This article is general health information and does not replace an individual medical assessment, diagnosis or treatment plan.