Medical conditions which affect how much blood the heart circulates through the body, such as heart failure, put people at increased risk. Medicines which limit the body's ability to sweat or cause increased loss of fluid can also increase your risk of getting too hot. When blood supply and oxygen are also in short supply due to heart or lung conditions, the person is at high risk for a heat-related illness. Heat exhaustion and heat stroke are the two most common forms of hyperthermia. Heat stroke is the most serious because it can be life-threatening, especially for older adults living in poorly ventilated houses and apartments.
Heat exhaustion is the warning the body gets that it is getting too hot.
Headache, nausea and fatigue after exposure to extremely warm temperatures are warning signs that the person may have a heat-related illness. A doctor should be consulted. Questions will be chosen based on general interest, and publication of each question is not guaranteed. The information in this publication should not be considered specific medical advice and is not meant to replace professional medical service.