CHARLESTON, SC (WCSC) -
With the heat index across the Lowcountry topping out over 100 degrees it’s important for you to keep in mind that extreme heat can have extreme consequences.
Dehydration, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke are just some of the dangers you need to be mindful of.
"Heat stroke is basically when your body has hit its limit when your body internal temperature is over 104 degrees, and that can rapidly lead to death," said Jan Werner, an RN at East Cooper Medical Center.
Werner said that’s why it’s important to look out for signs of heat exhaustion before your body gets to that point.
"You’re sweaty, you'll have a rapid pulse, sometimes you'll feel weak,” said Werner “It's really important to stay hydrated and get on top of it before you get to an exasperated point."
A good way to stay cool is in the pool, but even then, you need to think ahead.
Just because you’re surrounded by water doesn’t mean you can’t get dehydrated.
"In the pool you're wet, but you don't realize you're still sweating. Your body is still exercising, working out," said Werner.
When you get out of the pool that’s when you need to be mindful, because Werner said it can turn deadly quickly.
"Heat exhaustion happens much faster than people can imagine," said Werner.
Werner says if you have to be outside, try and wear long clothing to keep your temperature down.
According to the Mayo Clinic, possible heat exhaustion could include these signs and symptoms:
- Cool, moist skin with goose bumps when in the heat
- Heavy sweating
- Faintness
- Dizziness
- Fatigue
- Weak, rapid pulse
- Low blood pressure upon standing
- Muscle cramps
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