PADUCAH — Hot temperatures aren't just uncomfortable. They're dangerous.
People with heart problems, poor circulation, diabetes, a previous stroke or obesity are at greater risk of becoming sick in hot weather.
The least serious problem is a heat cramp, basically a muscle spasm from a lack of water and electrolytes, or salt in the body.
Then, there's a heat rash, red or pink marks found on your body near areas covered by clothing.
After that, things start to get serious. Heat exhaustion can occur after several days of sun exposure.
And if you're core temperature goes too high, you could develop heat stroke.
Dr. Allan Wells at Western Baptist Hospital has seen several cases of heat-related illnesses this month.
"It can happen rapidly but a lot of the common theme that we see is the cumulative nature," he said. "The day before, you haven't recovered your lost fluids. You're starting that day already even further behind in the first, so you can, it can happen quickly. It can happen slowly."
To avoid all this, stay hydrated. The CDC says for every hour we are outside in the extreme heat, we should be drinking 30 ounces of water. Thats a little less than two standard water bottles.
.jpg)
Most Popular