Knowing the signs of dehydration and heat stroke

Working or exercising outside on a hot day can produce a lot of sweat and thirst, but if you start to feel fatigued or lightheaded, you may be suffering from dehydration.

Dehydration happens when your body is losing more fluid than it’s taking in.
In more extreme cases, dehydration can lead to heat stroke.

“If one notices that they are starting to have any mental status changes or neurologic changes, that means you are moving into heat stroke. That is an acute life-threatening condition and that needs to be addressed in your local, closest emergency department,” said Dr. Tom Waters, with Cleveland Clinic.

If left untreated, heat stroke can lead to organ failure and even death.

People are encouraged to hydrate before, during and after their time in the sun.