Heat stress is a group of disorders that occur following heat exposure. These range from heat cramps all the way to heat stroke, a life-threatening condition. Factors, which lead to heat stress, include:
* increased air temperature and humidity,
* lack of physical conditioning or obesity,
* hard exercise and dehydration,
* heart disease and other chronic illnesses, and
* alcohol and other drug consumption.

The signs of heat stress include thirst, headache, nausea, dizziness, muscle cramps, and weakness. To treat, you should:
* Have the person stop exercising and lie down.
* Remove the person to a shady or cool place.
* Give the person plenty of fluids to drink. Force dilute Gatorade or lemonade with one-quarter teaspoon of salt per quart.
* Spray the person with cool water, or immerse them in water.

Treat heat stress properly at this stage, otherwise the person may develop heat stroke. Heat stroke is a serious emergency. The signs of heat stroke include:
* Confusion, loss of judgment, fainting, or loss of consciousness.
* Very hot, dry skin temperature. When seen in young, exercising adults, sweating may be present.
* Rectal body temperature of 104 degrees Fahrenheit or higher.
* Convulsions or seizures.

If these occur:
* Call for help by dialing 911.
* Spray the person with cool water, and use a fan to cool them.
* Place ice packs on the person's head, neck, groin, and under their armpits.
* Often, emergency fluids given into a vein will be needed.

Prevent heat stress by drinking plenty of fluids, especially when exercising in the heat. Drink more than you would like, and drink before you are thirsty. Do not take salt tablets. Just drink dilute Gatorade or add one-quarter teaspoon of salt to each quart of water or lemonade. Wear light-colored, cotton clothing and a hat. Avoid strenuous exercise during the hottest part of the day.

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