How Water Can Help Prevent Heat Stroke

As temperatures heat up for summer so will outdoor activities, with a spike in everything from hiking, swimming and outside sports to yard work. But while we’re exercising outdoors can be fun, keep in mind that you will most likely exert an extra amount of energy. This dangerous combination of external and internal heat can lead to high body temperature, which can potentially lead to heat stroke. It’s important to understand how this harmful medical condition can come about, recognize the symptoms and know how to prevent heat stroke this summer.

Signs Of Heat Stroke

Heat stroke occurs when the core body temperature is greater than 104 degrees Fahrenheit. The increase in body temperature is caused by exposure to high temperatures and can be fueled by additional heat generated through physical activity and dehydration. The slew of symptoms include headache, dizziness, muscle cramping, nausea and vomiting and rapid heartbeat, just to name a few, and can lead to extreme cases of seizure and unconsciousness. One of the most effective ways to avoid heat-related illness from happening is to drink plenty of water.

Beat The Heat With Water

There are a number of ways you can incorporate more water into your system to prevent dehydration and heat stroke. Try to avoid drinks that don’t offer optimal hydration, like soda and coffee, and opt for water instead. If you’re looking to quench your thirst, you can make flavored water drinks. They can offer the additional benefit of natural electrolytes—which are responsible for maintaining your body’s fluid balance for proper functioning. During the hotter days of summer, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration recommends drinking one cup of water for every 15 minutes you’re outside in order to stay hydrated. You can also use water when treating heat stroke by spraying or sponging cool water onto the body to help lower spiked temperatures.

Other Ways To Stay Cool In The Summer

Aside from drinking plenty of water, there are also other ways to cool your body temperature. Wear loose clothing, especially if you’re working out in the sun, so that internal heat can more easily escape your body. And stay shaded, be it with a large floppy sun hat, under an umbrella or in the shadow of a large tree, small choices like these can help with preventing heat exhaustion.

Look To Culligan For Proper Hydration

Hydrating with water can be essential to preventing heat stroke. That’s why it’s important to make sure you’re drinking high quality water. Call your local Culligan Man to check the quality of your drinking water. With cleaner and clearer water you can beat the heat and prevent heat stroke from occurring all summer long.