Combining the high temperatures with the high humidity common in Kansas can make for more than just an uncomfortable day. The high temperatures and humidity common in the area pose a very real health danger to those spending much time out of doors. Heat becomes deadly when it pushes the body beyond it's limits. Each year, on average, about 175 people in America die due to the effects of extreme heat. Health problems which can occur from exposure to extreme heat include heat cramps, heat exhaustion and heatstroke.
Heat cramps are muscular pains and spasms which are caused by heavy exertion in the heat.
Heat exhaustion occurs when people exercise or work heavily or work in a hot, humid place in which body fluids are lost through heavy sweating. Heatstroke, or sunstroke, is a life threatening situation in which the body's control system, which produces sweating to coll the body stops working. Symptoms of heat related illness include muscle cramps, hot, red, dry skin, delirium, headache, nausea, weakness, pale and clammy skin, high body temperature, rapid strong pulse, unconsciousness, dizziness, rapid heartbeat, profuse perspiration or cessation of sweating. Heatstroke is an extremely serious emergency and immediate medical attention is required. The symptoms of heat cramps and heat exhaustion may mimic other serious illnesses.