NIOSH warns heat stroke is a medical emergency, call 911. UPI/Stephen Shaver
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WASHINGTON, July 18 (UPI) -- With another day of oppressive, humid, sticky heat in the Northeast and Midwest, U.S. government officials warn outdoor workers of the risk of heat stress.
Officials at the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health Division of Safety Research said heat stress from the high temperatures combined with high humidity can result in a heat index of 100 or more F causing heat stroke, heat exhaustion, heat cramps, or heat rashes.
"Workers at risk of heat stress include outdoor workers and workers in hot environments such as firefighters, bakery workers, farmers, construction workers, miners, boiler room workers, factory workers and others," OSHA said "Workers at greater risk of heat stress include those who are age 65 or older, are overweight, have heart disease or high blood pressure, or take medications that may be affected by extreme heat."
Symptoms of heat exhaustion include:
-- Heavy sweating.
-- Extreme weakness or fatigue.
-- Dizziness, confusion.
-- Nausea.
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Triple figure heat index can cause heat stress, heat stroke