On average, according to the Illinois State Climatologist, there are ten days in Illinois at or above 90 degrees each year.  With temperatures last week soaring above 90 degrees its important to remember the difference between heat stroke and heat exhaustion. Dr. Brian Curtis, vice president of Clinical Specialty Services for OSF HealthCare says preparation and awareness are key for staying safe in the summer months. 

If heat exhaustion is not recognized early, it could cause heat stroke.

Dr. Curtis says hospitals see heat stroke patients every summer, especially during longer stretches of hot and humid weather.  With high humidity, bodies can’t cool off as easily.  Dr. Curits says kids and older adults are more susceptible to heat stroke.

Sometimes heat exhaustion or heat stroke isn’t necessarily an outside issue.  

The effects of heat stroke can be long-lasting, or could even potentially lead to death. 

Dr. Curtis encourages you to play it safe when it comes to heat, and drink plenty of liquids, avoid dehydrating liquids, take frequent breaks, and get out of the sun.

Find out more information, by clicking here.