Don't Let the Heat Get You

July 15, 2006 — -- A heat wave is hitting the country, and staying cool isn't just about your comfort level -- it's important for your health.

Heat stroke can cause death or permanent disability if emergency treatment is not provided. And heat exhaustion, a milder form of heat-related illness, can leave you feeling quite sick, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

There are two common mistakes that lead to heat stroke, said Dr. Frank McGeorge, director of emergency medicine for director of emergency medicine at William Beaumont Hospital in Royal Oak, Mich.

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"First of all, dehydration is the biggest one, not having enough fluid on board," he said. "Second is not recognizing the symptoms, and continuing to exert yourself when you should have cut back. Those are the two biggest mistakes everyone makes."

McGeorge offered these tips for keeping cool in the hot weather: