SAN ANTONIO -- Extreme heat can make many of us extremely sick.
People working outdoors say even staying in the shade can be exhausting. So far this month, the fire department has answered 49 calls for heat-related illnesses. Nine of those patients were sick enough to take to the hospital.
Doctors are warning that too much exposure to the high temperatures can lead to heat exhaustion and stroke.
"Some of the easiest things to watch for if you're going into heat exhaustion, is that you might have a headache, some people feel nauseated, you're pulse will start to go up, so your heart will beat faster. You may get re and flushed," explained Dr. David Gude of Texas MedClinic.
Dr. Gude said the very young, elderly, sick, and obese are most at risk of getting a heat-related illness.
Doctors recommend you limit the amount of time you spend in the heat. If you feel overheated or dizzy, find a cool spot and take a break. You also need to keep yourself hydrated, especially if you have to be outside.
Doctors also say you can give yourself some quick relief by covering your head with a wet towel, frequent showers, or carrying a spray bottle filled with cold water for spritzes throughout the day.
Signs to watch for
Signs of heat-related illness:
- Sweating
- Headaches
- Dizziness
- Nausea
- Muscle cramping
