Persons suffering from heatstroke need immediate medical attention. Heat exhaustion is a milder illness that may take several days of high temperatures to develop. It occurs when the water and salts lost through perspiration are not adequately replaced. Victims may have pale, clammy skin and be sweating profusely. They may feel tired and weak, dizzy, have a headache and sometimes cramps, but their body temperature is close to normal.
Heat exhaustion can be severe enough to require hospitalization.
One of the most important things to do is to drink plenty of fluids, even if you aren't thirsty. When the body is under stress from heat, you may need up to 50 percent more to drink than your thirst would indicate. This one number connects seniors statewide with their local County Office on Aging, which can provide information on nearby air-conditioned public sites as well as assistance with transportation. Make sure that individuals who are bedridden or have mobility problems have adequate fluids within easy reach. If you are elderly or otherwise at risk, take advantage of any air-conditioned shelters that are set up during heat waves.