JONESBORO, AR (KAIT) – This type of heat is what doctors consider the "danger zone" for heat related illnesses. Many think they can't or won't be a victim of the sun.
"You really have to prepare to go out in the heat as bad as it is right now," said Dr. Shane Speights.
With temperatures in the 90's with no relief in sight from the heat many may fall victim to a heat related illness. Dr. Speights said people have a lot of misconceptions about the dangers of the sun. Many believe they won't get sick.
"People that may be getting a heat related illness get sick at their stomach, they may get a headache, they almost feel flu-like," said Speights.
"Eventually become really pale with clammy, sweaty skin. Have low blood pressure," said Dr. Troy Vines.
At NEA Urgent Care, Dr. Vines said he sees a lot of cases of heat exhaustion during the summer.
"We see them coming in they're nauseated, sometimes vomiting. They are weak very pale and often feeling faint," said Vines.
If you start feeling weak or get a headache doctors say you should stop what you're doing, go inside and lay down.
"Children have a real problem with it as do the elderly. Elderly more so because they have diabetes, heart disease, lung disease," said Speights.
Those who aren't normally in the heat are more likely to get sick.
"Lifeguards and people that work on road crews, lawn crews and sprinkler system guys are actually more adapted because they're actually in the heat more often and they can acclimate to it," said Speights.
If you've had a heat related illness you can get one again very easily. The best advice is to stay out of the heat of the day and know what you're looking for.
"You've got to be careful and you've got to look for the signs and symptoms of a heat related illness," said Speights.
Another big misconception is that you have to be outside for long periods of time to get a heat related illness. The truth is it can take less than an hour for the heat to get to you.
Copyright 2011 KAIT. All rights reserved.
Monday kicks off the week with temperatures in the high 90s, and temperatures are only expected to get hotter over the next few days.
According to Meteorologist Sarah Tipton, a ridge of high pressure will take hold and won't lose its grasp until closer to the end of our 7-day forecast. She says high temperatures will near 100 degrees by mid-week.
You should take every precaution possible to minimize heat exposure today and tomorrow as the NWS indicates that even shade may provide little relief from the daytime heat. This can be done by avoiding strenuous activities in the heat, wearing lightweight and light-colored clothing to reflect heat and sunlight, drinking plenty of water and clear liquids, and spending more time in air-conditioned places.
If you have small children, lock car doors so they can't get inside while you aren't looking, and make sure all children are out of the car before leaving it.
Pets need plenty of fresh, clean water. Make sure they have a large shady place to get away from the sun or even bring them indoors. Do not leave pets in your car.
For more information on hot weather and safety tips, follow the links below.
Region 8 Weather
Heat: A Major Killer
List of Missouri cooling centers for the elderly
Essential summer safety tips for kids
ASPCA Hot Weather Tips
Keep your dog happy and healthy this summer
"Like" or follow Sarah Tipton (@wxsarah), Ryan Vaughan (@ryanvaughan), and Bryan McCormick (@bryanwxbulldog) for more weather information
Copyright 2011 KAIT. All rights reserved.
(Source: The Loop)
(Source: The Loop)
(Source: The Loop)
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