A: Anyone who’s ever worked hard or played hard outside in the heat and humidity of a Southern summer knows just how tough it can be on your body. Heat exhaustion occurs when a person’s body can no longer effectively cool itself. For most people, strenuous physical activity produces sweat, which evaporates in the air and cools the body. On hot, humid days, the sweat doesn’t evaporate as quickly due to the air’s high moisture content and the body cannot release heat as effectively. In this situation, a person’s body temperature can rise very quickly, creating problems. The problems are known as heat exhaustion, and if left untreated can lead to a much more serious and potentially deadly condition known as heat stroke.

Symptoms of heat exhaustion vary from person to person but may include: headache, weakness, dizziness, feelings of worry or panic, a fast heartbeat, dehydration, and muscle pain.

It is extremely important that people suffering from heat exhaustion get out of the heat as quickly as possible. Sufferers should rest in a cool shaded area and drink plenty of water or other fluids. If symptoms do not go away after 30 minutes, medical attention should be sought. Note: Alcoholic beverages should not be given to anyone displaying signs of heat exhaustion, as alcohol will worsen symptoms and could lead to heatstroke.

Immediate medical attention is required for those suffering heatstroke. Heatstroke victims often run a fever, have hot, dry skin and may seem confused or disoriented. Nausea and vomiting are also common heatstroke symptoms. Seizures are possible, and the victim may slip into a coma. Anyone suffering from heatstroke should be kept in a cool shady area. Help the victim cool down by wetting the skin with lukewarm water and fanning the body with warm air.

Heat-related illness can be avoided by taking the following steps:

• Wear lightweight, light-colored and loose fitting clothing for outdoor activities.
• Drink lots of water or other fluids before, during, and after any outdoor activity. Try to drink something every 15-20 minutes, whether thirsty or not. Avoid drinks containing caffeine and/or alcohol.
• Wear sunscreen of SPF 15 or greater when outside, and reapply regularly throughout the day.
• People who take medication or who have a chronic illness should talk to a doctor before engaging in any outdoor activity, as certain medications and conditions make people more susceptible to heat stroke.