Tips to avoid heat exhaustion and heatstroke during outdoor activity

(Texas A&M AgriLife) – As summer temperatures increase, so does the threat of a heat-related illness. To help reduce this risk, the following tips can keep cool and stay safe in the heat.& & & & & “Heat exhaustion can occur when the body heats up faster than its ability to cool down,” said Mike Lopez, DrPH, AgriLife Extension specialist in family and community health, Bryan-College Station. “It is the body’s response to excessive loss of water and salt, which can cause symptoms like heavy sweating, faintness, dizziness, fatigue, rapid pulse, headache and nausea.”Heat exhaustion, heatstroke can be seriousRelated Stories Without prompt treatment, Lopez said heat exhaustion can lead to heatstroke, a life-threatening condition. Heatstroke occurs when the body reaches a temperature of 104 degrees or higher.“Some symptoms of heatstroke are confusion, altered speech, nausea or vomiting, rapid breathing, and a racing heartbeat,” he said. “We recommend everyone, especially if they are at a high-risk for heat-related illness, be aware of the symptoms of heat stress, especially heat exhaustion and heatstroke.”Heatstroke requires emergency treatment. Left untreated, it can quickly damage your brain, heart, kidneys and muscles. The damage worsens the longer treatment is delayed, increasing your risk of serious complications...