Nurse Practitioner Victoria Burk explains how to avoid heat-related illnesses in our Healthy U segment.

The people at the greatest risk for heat-related illness are children under four, adults older than 65, alcohol users, anyone overweight and people who work outside.

A warning sign of mild heat-related illness is when the body is not able to reduce its temperature, which leaves you dehydrated and not able to sweat enough.

Symptoms of heat exhaustion are: nausea, vomiting, weakness, headache, dizziness, muscle cramps and fainting. Your skin can also appear pale, cool and moist. Also, look for a fast-weak pulse and shallow breathing.

Heat exhaustion is treatable. Get out of the heat immediately. Rest with your legs elevated and drink non-caffeinated drinks. Be sure to apply a cool cloth to the neck and armpits.

A heat stroke is a medical emergency that can cause death. It usually comes with a high fever and cause damage to vital organs. If you think you are experiencing a heat stroke you need to seek medical attention immediately.

The signs of a heat stroke are: difficulty breathing, fast pulse, strange behaviors, hallucinations, irritable, confusion, seizure or coma. The skin is also red, hot and dry.

You can prevent heat-related illness by avoiding being outside in the hottest part of the day. Be sure to wear loose-fitting lightweight clothes.
Have a spray bottle with water and drink plenty of water or sports drinks.

For more information you can always call Ask-A-Nurse at 1-800-476-7378 or 706-737-8423.