With temperatures back into the mid-90s for part of this week, it’s a good time to review the signs and symptoms of some heat-related illnesses.

Greene County Public Health Director Becky Wolf says heat exhaustion typically occurs before heat stroke, and it is the result of being exposed to high temperatures and dehydration. The signs of heat exhaustion include confusion, pale skin and urine, body fatigue, headache, nausea and vomiting, diarrhea, constant sweating and a rapid heart rate.  

Wolf notes heat stroke is a result of prolonged exposure to high temperatures and develops after heat exhaustion. The signs of heat stroke include a body temperature of 100.4 or more degrees, throbbing headache, dizziness, muscle cramps or weakness, rapid heart rate, nausea or vomiting, shallow and rapid breathing, confusion, along with red, hot and dry skin. Wolf points out the seriousness that heat stroke can have on your body.

“The body’s temperature control system fails and that can lead to brain damage, and damage to other vital organs, and it can also cause death.”

Wolf adds preventative measures include drinking lots of fluids, taking breaks in shady and cool areas, and wearing a hat and other protective clothing.