Summertime in West Texas means triple digit temperatures and lots of sunshine, but for those who spend a lot of time outdoors, it can also spell the perfect recipe for heat related illnesses.
"It's a major problem in the Summer, especially in July and August months," explains Dr. Brian Sorensen with Hendrick Medical Center.
Heat stroke is the worst of heat related illnesses and happens when the body temperature rises above 106 degrees.
"That really affects the brain's ability to respond to heat," says Dr. Sorensen.
So how do you keep it from happening to you? Dr. Sorensen says, it's all about monitoring the signs and symptoms.
"It's important to keep in mind for young children and the elderly particularly," he explains. "Early signs may be nausea, fatigue, light-headedness..."
In more developed stages of heat related illness, symptoms can include complications with the heart, lungs, and kidneys, along with shortness of breath and confusion.
To prevent heat related illnesses, Dr. Sorensen recommends drinking plenty of water and sports drinks to stay hydrated if you have to be outdoors for prolonged periods of time.
"Avoid heavy sugar drinks," he explains, "and then it's important to take yourself out of the heat."
Connect With Hendrick Medical Center:
1900 Pine Street
(325) 670-2000
Find them on Facebook!
"It's a major problem in the Summer, especially in July and August months," explains Dr. Brian Sorensen with Hendrick Medical Center.
Heat stroke is the worst of heat related illnesses and happens when the body temperature rises above 106 degrees.
"That really affects the brain's ability to respond to heat," says Dr. Sorensen.
So how do you keep it from happening to you? Dr. Sorensen says, it's all about monitoring the signs and symptoms.
"It's important to keep in mind for young children and the elderly particularly," he explains. "Early signs may be nausea, fatigue, light-headedness..."
In more developed stages of heat related illness, symptoms can include complications with the heart, lungs, and kidneys, along with shortness of breath and confusion.
To prevent heat related illnesses, Dr. Sorensen recommends drinking plenty of water and sports drinks to stay hydrated if you have to be outdoors for prolonged periods of time.
"Avoid heavy sugar drinks," he explains, "and then it's important to take yourself out of the heat."
Connect With Hendrick Medical Center:
1900 Pine Street
(325) 670-2000
Find them on Facebook!
