Health officials warn of heat exhaustion

LAWTON, OK (KSWO)- Health officials are advising residents to avoid being outdoors in the heat during extreme temperatures.

Dr. Heidi Nightengale with Lawton Community Health Center said body temperatures increase during peak heat hours between two and five o'clock.

The mid-70s are the most comfortable for the body, but if you exceed that temperature you could suffer from heat exhaustion or heat stroke a condition even more severe.

"The thermal regulatory mechanisms start kicking in and you start sweating," said Nightengale. "You might notice that your mouth gets dry and skin gets dry because of the loss of fluid. You might have decreased in urination because of the output of fluid from the sweat in the skin."

Nightengale said if your body exceeds 103 degrees you may also notice that your skin is hot, red and dry.

She said people at risk include the elderly or young because they can't regulate their body temperatures. Those with diseases like lupus or M-S should especially avoid the sun and people who take certain medications.

"So like if you're on a medicine for blood pressure that is diuretic it can decrease the fluid that's in your body so it's really important to stay well hydrated," said Nightengale.

She adds if you do have to spend any time outdoors or in the heat, be mindful of the warning signs of possible heat stroke.

"If you find yourself having some nausea vomiting, excessive sweating or signs and symptoms of heat stroke such as the high temperature and the no sweating at all, then you need to see your doctor," said Nightengale.

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