If you start sweating the moment you step outside that's a good thing. Your body is trying to cool its largest organ, your skin. But there are a few things to pay attention to when temperatures reach 90 + degrees.
If you're already thirsty, that means you're already dehydrated. Keep drinking water to avoid the thirst.
If you're working outside in the heat, try to drink at least 32 ounces each hour and avoid caffeine and alcohol.
The sun makes you squint, and exposure to UV rays can increase the risk of cataracts, so wear sunglasses.
Avoid the sunburn by wearing sunscreen. Sunburn causes your body to lose fluids faster.
High humidity prevents your body from cooling off properly and the first sign of overheating is heat rash.
If the heat causes profuse sweating, dizziness or your heart starts racing, get shade, or get inside and cooled off immediately. That could be heat exhaustion, even though you may even feel cold and clammy.
The danger is when you stop sweating, feel nauseous and even confused.
That's heat stroke and you need immediate emergency medical attention. Call 9-1-1.
Also be aware of cooling centers if you don't have air conditioning. Oak Street Health Centers in the Glenville, Lee Harvard and Westown neighborhoods will be open during the day from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. to help residents stay cool.