As temperatures rise in Texarkana, health and weather experts are urging residents to take precautions against heat-related illnesses that can range from uncomfortable to life-threatening.

Who is Most at Risk?

Senior adults should be especially careful since they are more vulnerable during periods of extreme heat. Exercise is always encouraged for senior adults but should be done indoors during the hottest part of the summer.

Young children, older adults, outdoor workers, athletes, and people with chronic medical conditions face increased risk during hot weather. High humidity can make conditions even more dangerous because it reduces the body’s ability to cool itself through the evaporation of sweat.

Symptoms and Treatment

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, they should be moved to a cooler location with circulating air, and excess clothing should be loosened or removed.

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. While waiting for first responders, officials recommend moving the person to a cool or shaded area, removing excess clothing, and beginning rapid cooling with cool water, ice packs, or cold compresses.

Original reporting: Texarkana Gazette — read the source article.