Even though regular exercise is important for cardiovascular health, exercising in hot weather can lead to heat exhaustion or even heat stroke. These conditions result from the production of excess body heat, overwhelming the body’s capacity for heat release and raising the core body temperature.
What you should know:
The signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion include:
- heavy sweating
- fatigue
- headache
- pale and clammy skin
- thirst
- increased heart rate
- dizziness or fainting
- nausea and vomiting
- muscle and abdominal cramps
- elevated temperature.
What is heat stroke?
Heat stroke occurs when the core body temperature exceeds 104 degrees F, accompanied by seizure or coma. The primary cause of heat exhaustion and stroke is dehydration with inadequate fluid and electrolyte repletion. Those with the following risk factors are particularly prone to heat exhaustion and stroke: extreme young or old, pregnancy, chronic illness (in particular cardiac or respiratory diseases), alcohol consumption, extreme physical exertion, and certain medications.
So how do I exercise in the heat?
