As temperatures rise across the Ark-La-Tex, health and weather officials are warning residents to take precautions against heat-related illnesses that can range from uncomfortable to life-threatening.

Understanding Heat Exhaustion and Heat Stroke

According to the American Red Cross, heat exhaustion occurs when the body loses fluids and salts through sweating faster than they can be replaced. If left untreated, heat exhaustion can progress to heat stroke, a medical emergency that requires immediate treatment.

The National Weather Service and other safety organizations recommend drinking water regularly, even before feeling thirsty, and limiting strenuous outdoor activities during the hottest part of the day. Wearing lightweight, loose-fitting, light-colored clothing and taking frequent breaks in air-conditioned buildings or shaded areas can help reduce the risk of illness.

Officials also stress the importance of never leaving children, older adults, or pets in parked vehicles and checking on elderly relatives, neighbors, and others who may be vulnerable during periods of extreme heat.

Identifying Symptoms and Seeking Help

Symptoms of heat exhaustion can include heavy sweating, cool or clammy skin, headache, dizziness, weakness, nausea, muscle cramps, rapid pulse, and excessive thirst. If someone develops these symptoms, the Red Cross recommends moving the person to a cooler location with circulating air, loosening or removing excess clothing, and applying cool, wet cloths or spraying the skin with cool water while fanning them.

Heat stroke is the most severe heat-related illness and can be fatal if not treated quickly. Warning signs include confusion, slurred speech, seizures, loss of consciousness, a very high body temperature, rapid heartbeat, and hot skin that may be either dry or heavily sweating. Anyone suspected of suffering heat stroke should receive immediate emergency medical attention.

Original reporting: Texarkana Gazette — read the source article.