Extreme heat health warnings

 Extreme heat health warnings

High temperatures and high humidity are not expected to let up through the weekend in Illinois. Take some actions to help avoid heat-related illnesses.

With high temperatures expected to continue this weekend, Illinois Department of Public Health Director Dr. LaMar Hasbrouck is urging Illinoisans to take preventive actions during this extremely hot weather to avoid heat-related illness, such as heat-stroke.  

“It’s important for people to recognize the signs of heat-related illness and take action to prevent becoming sick. High heat and humidity can lead to serious health problems,” Dr. Hasbrouck said. “To help your body cope with high temperatures, take steps to stay cool, increase your fluid intake, decrease your activities and wear appropriate clothing.”

Normally, the body cools itself by sweating. However, if temperatures and humidity are extremely high, sweating is not effective in maintaining the body’s normal temperature.  If the body does not cool properly or does not cool enough, a person may suffer a heat-related illness, which can become serious or even deadly if unattended.

Heatstroke is caused by prolonged exposure to the heat. Symptoms of heatstroke include:

Headache

Red, dry face

Skin hot to touch

Body temperature of 105° F or more

Loss of consciousness

Seizures, irregular heartbeat