Don't Let the Heat Beat You

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Your blood absorbs the heat left over from muscle activity. The more heat that is absorbed, the higher the body temperature becomes. As this process happens, the thermoregulatory (heating and cooling) system in your brain signals that it's time to cool the body. Your pores open, and sweat is released to evaporate and cool your body.

Your Body's AC

If your heating and cooling system malfunctions, you may not produce sweat or sweat may not evaporate properly. In this case, your body can become overheated easily. This situation can occur on hot, humid days because your body's cooling system can become inefficient. In addition, if you haven't consumed enough water, it becomes more difficult for your body's cooling system to function properly.

Horrible Heat Exhaustion

Heat exhaustion usually comes on several hours after rigorous activity and dehydration and can include the following symptoms:

• fatigue
• exhaustion
• nausea
• lightheadedness
• heat cramps

Keep Your Cool

There are many ways to avoid dehydration and heat exhaustion. Here are just a few:

1. Keep a steady pace. If you feel the above symptoms coming on, slow down or take a break.
2. If it's especially hot or humid, take time to adjust to the temperature. Your body's cooling system can adjust to the hot weather, so take your time.
3. If you're active during the hottest part of the day, in the mid-afternoon, take a rest and water break.
4. To allow air to move and sweat to evaporate, wear cotton clothing. Also wear a hat to shade your head.

Sources: www.nws.noaa.gov, redcross.org, bt.cdc.gov