Avoid Heat Stroke This Summer!

A hot summer day never stopped me from getting outdoors; I've mountain biked and hiked in 90º+ heat plenty of times. But last summer I got severe heat exhaustion twice, and it was a serious bummer. The second time was the day before my wedding and I missed the rehearsal dinner.

On a hot day, your body normally sweats to keep itself within a safe range. If your body temperature is allowed to elevate, it leads to heat exhaustion, and more seriously, heat stroke. Heat stroke is very dangerous and can lead to permanent injury or death. 

The first defense is to stay hydrated. You should be drinking water all day, and if you're not peeing clear, you are beginning to get dehydrated. It's also very important to get electrolytes, such as in Gatorade. Even eating salty foods helps, because your body loses salt along with the water in sweat. Be aware that any alcohol you drink around the campfire will leave you with minor dehydration in the morning. 

If you've been outside on a hot day and start feeling weak, dizzy, or nauseous, get cooled down as fast as you can. Go swimming in the lake, and drink as much water and electrolytes as you can handle.  The first time I had heat exhaustion, I couldn't keep water down, but as soon as I got cooled off and drank some Gatorade I recovered quickly. If you pass out, stop sweating, or have a fast heart rate or high temperature, get medical help immediately. See WebMD for more symptoms and treatment information.