Temperatures are rising and the State Department of Public Health is warning Illinoisans to be careful in the heat.
Exposure to extreme heat can cause serious health complications says the State’s Chief Medical Officer. Doctor Arti Barnes says there’s heat exhaustion, and the more dangerous heatstroke.
“Just when your body overheats where it can be very dangerous to your system, your even your organs start shutting down and you get confused what they called delirium or having a hard time even knowing what’s happening.”
Symptoms of heatstroke include a body temperature of over 103 degrees Fahrenheit, difficulty breathing, skin that’s hot to the touch and an elevated heart rate. If this happens, Barnes says you should call 911 immediately.
Barnes says hydrate, hydrate, hydrate is the best advice to deal with the extreme heat. Barnes also urges people to nix any strenuous outdoor activities and to stay in an air-conditioned area during the hottest hours of the day. She says children and seniors are more vulnerable to the impact of the heat.
