Heat-Related Illnesses: How to Stay Safe in Utah’s Late Summer
Utah’s late summer days can be hot, dry, and deceptively intense. Even as we head toward fall, temperatures in many parts of the state can still climb well into the 90s—and with low humidity, you may not realize how quickly your body can lose fluids.
Heat-related illnesses like heat exhaustion and dehydration are common this time of year, but they’re also preventable. Here’s how to recognize the warning signs, protect yourself, and know when to seek urgent care.
Understanding Heat-Related Illnesses
1. Heat Exhaustion
Heat exhaustion happens when your body overheats and can’t cool itself down fast enough.
Common symptoms include:
Heavy sweating
Weakness or fatigue
Dizziness or fainting
Headache
Nausea or vomiting
Cool, clammy skin despite the heat
What to do:
Move to a shaded or air-conditioned space, drink cool water or electrolyte drinks, and rest. Loosen tight clothing and use a cool, damp cloth on your skin.
2. Dehydration
Dehydration occurs when your body loses more fluids than it takes in—often from sweating, breathing in dry air, or not drinking enough water during outdoor activities.
Warning signs include:
Thirst
Dry mouth
Dark yellow urine or infrequent urination
Fatigue
Dizziness
What to do:
Drink water regularly, even if you don’t feel thirsty. Include electrolyte drinks if you’ve been sweating heavily. Avoid alcohol and excessive caffeine, which can worsen dehydration.
Prevention Tips for Utah’s Late Summer
Hydrate before you’re thirsty—especially if you’re hiking, working outdoors, or doing sports.
Wear lightweight, light-colored clothing to help your body stay cool.
Take breaks in the shade or indoors every hour.
Plan outdoor activities for early morning or evening when temperatures are cooler.
Know your limits—heat-related illness can happen faster than you think.
When to Seek Urgent Care
You should visit urgent care if you or someone you’re with has:
Persistent nausea or vomiting
Fainting or severe dizziness
Confusion or trouble speaking
Rapid heartbeat
Signs of heat exhaustion that don’t improve after 30 minutes of cooling and hydration
Seek emergency care (call 911) if there are signs of heat stroke, such as:
High body temperature (103°F or higher)
Hot, dry skin with no sweating
Seizures
Unconsciousness
We’re Here to Help
At VC Urgent Care, we treat heat-related illnesses quickly and effectively so you can recover and get back to your summer plans. If you’re experiencing symptoms, don’t wait—visit us for fast, walk-in care.
📍 Location: 3742 W 2150 N Ste 150
📞 Call: (385) 220-6257
🖥 Online Appointment: Schedule an Appointment
Stay hydrated. Stay cool. Stay safe this summer in Utah.