MOUNT VERNON — The dog days of summer are upon us, and, as temperatures rise, the risk for heat-related illness also increases. Individuals with certain medical conditions, senior citizens and children are most susceptible to heat. Weather forecasts predict temperatures will reach at least 90 degrees every day this week.
Dr. Peter Bainbridge said it is important for people to know the signs and symptoms of heat-related illness, called hyperthermia. The first signs are heavy sweating, feeling tired and being thirsty. Muscle cramps may also occur. As the condition progresses, symptoms will include headache, dizziness, decreased urination, nausea and vomiting.
Hyperthermia, a dangerously high body temperature, can also cause death. Tragically, an average of 36 children in the United States die each year from hyperthermia after being left unattended in a vehicle. Last year 49 such deaths occurred.
