Play or work outside? Know the 8 signs of heat stroke

It's official: Summer 2012 has started with a sizzle. Heat waves have settled in across the Midwest and East Coast and temperatures have reached record-highs in New York City , Boston and Washington, D.C .

Arizona has been in the triple digits for a few weeks now.

For those who work outside or choose to participate in outdoor recreation, the heat is more than an inconvenience – it could lead to serious illness.

Heat-related illnesses include heat exhaustion, heat rash and heat stroke – all of which can mean the body's temperature control system has become overloaded.

According to information from the Centers for Disease Control , elderly people, infants and young children, those who are overweight and those who are on certain medications are the most at risk of developing heat-related symptoms.

Heat exhaustion is a milder form of heat-related illness, according to the CDC. It can occur after a few days of heat exposure or when the body has unbalanced fluids. Symptoms include:

• Heavy sweating
• Paleness
• Muscle cramps
• Tiredness
• Weakness
• Dizziness
• Headache
• Nausea or vomiting
• Fainting

Remedies for heat exhaustion include replacing lost fluids, taking a cool shower or bath and resting in a cooler or air-conditioned environment.

The most serious heat related illness is heat stroke. According to the CDC, symptoms include:

• An extremely high body temperature (above 103°F)
• Red, hot, and dry skin (no sweating)
• Rapid, strong pulse
• Throbbing headache
• Dizziness
• Nausea
• Confusion
• Unconsciousness

Heat stroke is a very serious illness and medical care is required for treatment. If you or a loved one experience signs of heat stroke, call 911 immediately – the condition can be fatal.

According to the CDC, emergency treatment can include cooling the victim rapidly using whatever means available: a cold shower, a tub of cool water, a garden hose or even a wet sheet.