By Courtney Siems, M.D.

The air conditioners are buzzing and the sidewalks are sizzling. It’s summer time in Texas, so take extra precaution to avoid heat-related illnesses like heat stroke.

Characterized by an abnormally elevated body temperature, heat stroke usually occurs when people are engaging in outdoor activities on hot, humid days. While it’s more common in the elderly, heat stroke can occur in the young, the healthy and even in infants.

Warning signs of heat-related illness to look for include fatigue, headache, dizziness, mental confusion, muscle cramps, rapid breathing, nausea and vomiting.

To prevent heat stroke, avoid outside physical exertion during the hottest times of the day, usually between 2 and 5 p.m. If you must be outdoors, wear light, loose-fitting clothing, stay hydrated with water and avoid dehydrating alcoholic and caffeinated beverages.

If you have elderly neighbors or family members, check on them during the day for signs of heat-related illness. Make sure they have access to electric fans, and if necessary, transport them to an air-conditioned location.

If you see someone showing signs of heat illness, get them to a cooler environment, moisten their skin with lukewarm water, fan them and call 911 for assistance. Left untreated, heat stroke can result in permanent disabilities or death.