Summer brings high temperatures and high humidity, increasing health risks when people work and play outside. Risks are especially great for older people and young children. Patient First has provided information on heat-related illnesses and their treatment and prevention.

Excessive heat can cause several health problems, including heat exhaustion. Symptoms include profuse sweating; headache; dizziness; nausea; vomiting; rapid heartbeat; cool, moist, pale skin; and muscle cramps. If someone is experiencing symptoms of being heat exhausted, move the person to a cooler location, apply cool, wet cloths to their body, and give them cool water to drink. If the person vomits or refuses to drink, call 911. Heat exhaustion can lead to heat stroke.

Heat stroke occurs when the body loses its ability to control its own temperature. Symptoms may include very high body temperature; confusion and slurred speech; hot, dry skin or excessive sweating; seizures; and loss of consciousness. It is important to take action if a heat stroke occurs, as this condition can be fatal. Get the person out of the sun - preferably into an air-conditioned room - and call 911. Provide cool water for the person to drink, soak his or her clothing with water, and keep surrounding air circulating.

Other early warning signs of heat-related illness may include cramps and a heat rash. If someone is showing signs of a heat-related illness, he or she should seek medical attention immediately.

Several steps may be taken to help people avoid heat-related illnesses. People should wear light-weight, light-colored clothing made of breathable material, like cotton. They should stay hydrated by drinking water throughout the day. They should avoid strenuous outdoor activity on hot days, and if they must be outside, they should take frequent breaks in a cool place.

Air-conditioning is the best way to protect against heat-related illness. During extreme heat, anyone who does not have air-conditioning at their home may try to spend time in air-conditioned locations, such as a shopping mall, public library, or public health-sponsored heat-relief shelter in their area.