Missouri Baptist doctors are urging everyone to take extreme cautions in this continuous 100 degree high humidity summer weather.
This is what they have to say:
Heat illnesses can be life-threatening. They are caused by being in the heat and sun too long and your body temperature reaching dangerous levels.
If you are experiencing any of the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion or heat cramps, find a way to cool yourself, rest in the shade or cool building, wet your head, and drink plenty of fluids - water or juice - avoid alcohol and caffeine.
If your symptoms progress to the signs and symptoms of heat stroke (listed below), seek immediate medical attention.
- Heat exhaustion - precedes heatstroke; symptoms include heavy sweating, rapid breathing and a fast, weak pulse.
- Heatstroke - can be a medical emergency. Your body temperature rises above 104F in minutes and symptoms include dry skin, rapid, strong pulse and dizziness.
- Heat cramps - muscle pains or spasms that happen during heavy exercise.
- Heat rash - skin irritation from excessive sweating.
Symptoms of Heat Stroke
- High body temperature - 104F or higher is the main sign of heat stroke
- Fainting or loss of consciousness or coma
- Lack of sweating
- Dry, flushed skin - your skin and face usually become very red
- Severe, throbbing headache
- Rapid strong heart rate
- Rapid and shallow breathing
- A change in behavior - confusion, difficulty speaking or understanding what others are saying. Check out the MoBap website for any further information.
