Medical Volunteer
June 26, 2025June 26, 2025
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Heat-Related Illnesses: What to Watch For and What to Do

Professional headshot of smiling Kimberly Spivack RoelikeBy Kimberly Spivack-Roelike, CNP, Family Medicine and Walk-In Clinic

Summer fun can turn serious when the heat gets too intense. I’ve run the Grandma’s (Garry Bjorklund) Half-Marathon three times and volunteered this year on the medical support team—so I’ve seen firsthand how quickly heat-related illnesses can escalate, even for experienced athletes. From mild fainting to life-threatening heat stroke, symptoms can appear suddenly during physical activity or extended time in the sun.

This article breaks down the types of heat illness—what they look like and how to act fast when every minute counts.

What is Heat Syncope (Exercise-Associated Collapse or EAC)?

  • Lightheadedness or fainting
  • Inability to stand or walk without assistance
  • Usually occurs after prolonged standing in the heat
  • Can happen when moving from sitting to standing in the heat

Treatment for Exercise-Associated Collapse

  • Move to a shaded area
  • Lie down and elevate your feet
  • Drink fluids
  • Avoid sudden movement until fully recovered
  • Feeling better can take 15–20 minutes; if there is no improvement within 20 minutes, it is reasonable to go to the emergency room

What is heat exhaustion?

Heat exhaustion is when your body struggles to cool itself properly from overexertion in warm temperatures.

Symptoms of Heat Exhaustion May Include:

  • Elevated heart rate
  • Weakness or fatigue
  • Headache
  • Muscle cramps
  • Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea

Treatment for Heat Exhaustion

  • Move to a shaded or air-conditioned space
  • Lie down and elevate your feet above heart level
  • Remove excess clothing
  • Drink chilled fluids
  • Take a cold shower or bath if available
  • It takes 1–2 hours to improve; seek emergency care if symptoms worsen or do not improve

What is Heat Injury (Exertional Heat Stroke)?

Exertional heat stroke is caused by a dangerous progression of high body temperature following intense physical activity. Heat stroke is a medical emergency requiring immediate attention.

Symptoms of Exertional Heat Stroke May Include:

  • Extremely high body temperature
  • Elevated heart rate and low blood pressure
  • Disorientation or confusion
  • Irrational behavior or irritability
  • Headache
  • Difficulty staying awake or seizures

Treatment for Exertional Heat Stroke

  • Move to a shaded or air-conditioned space
  • Move to shade and lie down with feet elevated
  • Call 911 or take the person to the emergency room immediately
  • This is a life-threatening emergency