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SPECIAL TO NWA DEMOCRAT-GAZETTE The heat and humidity of Northwest Arkansas are quickly approaching and with it the risk of heat stroke. Ironically, the first sign of dangerous heat stroke or heat-related illness is often the absence of sweat. As the temperature rises, your body's natural cooling mechanism – perspiration – evaporates and helps to cool your body. But on those really hot and humid days, evaporation is slowed and your body runs a higher risk of heat exhaustion or heat stroke. "Virtually all heat-related illnesses are preventable," says Dr. Gregory Spears, board certified family medicine physician practicing at Northwest Medical Plaza - Bentonville. "Be extra careful when the heat index is 90 degrees or above, and always drink plenty of water or fluids with electrolytes when the heat index is high. If you must be outdoors, take frequent breaks inside or in the shade. Heat stroke can affect people of any age or fitness level. Don't underestimate the danger." Heat exhaustion is a precursor to heat stroke. If you experience any of these symptoms, get out of the heat immediately, get to a cool place and slowly drink water or other fluids with salt or sugar: • Pale skin • Fatigue or weakness • Dizziness or nausea • Profuse sweating • Rapid pulse or fast, shallow breathing • Muscle weakness or cramps Do NOT drink caffeine or alcohol, and if you don't feel better within 30 minutes, seek medical help. Heat exhaustion can progress to heat stroke if not treated. These more dangerous warning signs can indicate heat stroke is imminent: • Skin that feels hot and dry, but not sweaty • Confusion or loss of consciousness • Throbbing headache • Frequent vomiting • Trouble breathing "Heat stroke is more serious than heat exhaustion, and it can be life- threatening," says Dr. Spears. "If you or someone you know experiences signs of heatstroke, remember NOT to attempt to bring down the temperature too quickly. Don't use ice or ice water. Attempt to bring down the temperature gradually with cool spray or mild air conditioning, and dial 911 or proceed immediately to the nearest ER." Certain groups of people are more vulnerable to heat-related illness. Babies, young children, the elderly, the infirmed and people on certain medications are all at increased risk. So, be an alert and informed neighbor this summer. Check on elderly neighbors regularly, and take action immediately if you see children or pets left in vehicles. Dr. Spears is currently accepting new patients. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call 479-553- 2664 or visit NW-Physicians.com. Prevention is key to avoiding heat stroke J. Kevin Thibodeaux, Ph.D., specializes in techniques associated with the treatment of infertility including oocyte maturation, IVF, microsurgical fertilization, cryopreservation and embryo culture. Dr. Thibodeaux's major focus has been on developmental requirements for early growth of embryos. His research has concentrated on how a single cell zygote progress to more advanced stages just prior to implantation and what is required for this process. He has published more than 30 peer-reviewed scientific articles and presented his work at national and international meetings. Dr. Thibodeaux is a board certified laboratory director in embryology and graduated from Louisiana State University with a Doctor of Philosophy in Reproductive Physiology. He then completed a two year postdoctoral appointment in Reproductive Biology from the same institution. Dr. Thibodeaux is a member of the American Fertility Society, the Society for the Study of Reproduction, the Society for Study of Fertility, the American Association of Bioanalysts, the International Embryo Transfer Society, the American Society for the Advancement of Science and Sigma Xi Scientific Honor Society. J. Kevin Thibodeaux, Ph.D. TULSA FERTILITY CENTER PhysicianPROFILE: Dr. Gregory Spears 8 | YOU AT YOUR BEST | NWADG.COM/YOUATYOURBEST JUNE - MENTAL HEALTH | SATURDAY, MAY 26, 2018