More Heat-Related Illnesses

BILLINGS - With a string of 80+ degree days, the heat is already beginning to take its toll on Billings residents.

"We've been seeing an increase this year in heat-related illnesses, I would say, more so than in previous years." said Dr. Doug Parker, emergency physician at St. Vincent Healthcare.

With the temperature expected to rise to the triple digits by next week, doctors are expecting a slew of heat-related illnesses.

"If we start hitting the triple digits, that's when you can see, particular among the elderly, almost an epidemic of heat-related illness." said Parker.

Heat-related illnesses include heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Symptoms for heat exhaustion include muscle cramps, dizziness, fatigue, and headache. Unlike other illnesses, heat-related illnesses are preventable. Dr. Parker said the recipe for prevention is simple: take it easy.

"Avoid sudden changes." said Parker "If you haven't been out in the heat, don't go mowing the lawn in 100-degree temperature."

That is something Lisa Stahl, who works as a volunteer at Pioneer Park, agrees with.

"You just got to learn to take it in moderation." said Stahl. "Go outside early in the morning and late in the evening, when its cooler."

If you believe you have heat exhaustion, go under the shade immediately, and drink plenty of cold drinks, such as water and drinks with electrolytes, such as Gatorade. If symptoms persist, seek medical attention immediately.