Human Health
Two of the most common human health issues resulting from heat waves, heat islands and summer-time power outages are heat stroke and heat exhaustion. Heat stroke occurs when the body becomes unable to control its temperature. The temperature of the body rises rapidly and the body is unable to cool down primarily as a result from a person unable to perspire. The body temperature can rise to 106F or higher. Heat stroke can be deadly. Symptoms can include a high body temperature, nausea and confusion, rapid pulse, confusion, and possible unconsciousness.
Heat exhaustion results from an extensive loss of water and salt contained in sweat. Its warning signs include heavy sweating, muscle cramps, headache, nausea, dizziness and weakness.
In both cases, get the victim to a cooler location and seek professional medical assistance.
