It's not uncommon for different parts of the country to experience heatwaves during the warm summer months. If you aren't careful when the temperature begins to soar, you may experience something called heatstroke. Here are 4 FAQs when it comes to heatstroke.

1. What Is Heatstroke?

While some people argue that 98.6 degrees F is considered a normal body temperature, others say it ranges anywhere from 97.7 degrees F to 99.5 degrees F. If you spend too much time in the heat, or you physically overexert yourself when it's hot outside, your body can overheat. If your body temperature reaches 104 degrees, then you are experiencing a serious form of heatstroke.

2. What Are the Symptoms of Heatstroke?

Besides having a body temperature of 104 degrees F., other common symptoms of heatstroke include:

• You seem confused or your speech is slurred
• You feel nauseous
• Your skin becomes flushed
• You feel your heart racing
• You get a headache

If the heatstroke is caused by prolonged exposure to the heat, your skin may feel hot and dry. If it's caused by physically exerting yourself in the heat, your skin will feel damp. Two more serious symptoms of heatstroke are seizures and falling into a coma.

If you have any of these symptoms, it's important to either find shade or another cooler place. If there is water nearby, use it to cool yourself off however you can, including spraying yourself with it and drinking it. One thing you don't want to drink if you are experiencing heat stroke is alcohol, as that will cause you to become even more dehydrated. If you don't feel better or your symptoms persist, it's best to seek medical attention.

3. Who Is Susceptible to Getting Heatstroke?

There are certain people who are more susceptible to getting heatstroke than others. Some of these people include the infants, the elderly, those with heart disease, and obese people. You are also more prone to getting heat stroke if you are on any of the following types of medications:

• Beta blockers
•  Diuretics
• Antihistamines
• Antipsychotics

People who take certain illegal drugs like amphetamines and cocaine are also susceptible to heat stroke as these drugs can increase a person's body temperature.

4. How Can You Prevent Heatstroke?

One way to prevent heat stroke is to try to stay cool when the heat index is high. This might mean staying indoors where there is air conditioning as much as possible. If it's been over one year since your air conditioning has been inspected and serviced, you may want to contact a contractor who can provide routine HVAC maintenance. For more information, visit a website such as http://www.bishopplumbing.com.