Karen Vesey is with Fleet Feet, an organization that promotes athletic programs. She runs, bikes and swims. When Vesey moved to Mississippi from Virginia, the hot weather took her by surprise. She used to run for up to an hour without bringing water with her. That changed after Vesey got sick.
"Severe, severe headaches, afterwards that just don't seem to go away no matter how much you drink. I've gotten to where your body will kinda start to shutdown and you think you should be sweating and you'll stop sweating," said Vesey.
Now Vesey always carries water when she runs. According to Jim Pollard with AMR Central Mississippi, Vesey's headaches and dry skin are two of the symptoms of a heat-related illness.
"Early symptom of heat exhaustion is feeling lightheaded or dizzy. It can include cool, clammy, sometimes pale skin. There can be headaches, nausea, vomiting, irritability, said Pollard.
Pollards warns that the elderly, children up to age 4, the obese, chronically ill, and substance abusers are vulnerable to heat-related illnesses. The National Weather Service has issued a heat advisory for Mississippi through Wednesday, which could make it feel up to 110 degrees outside. Pollard says its critical to stay cool, drink water or sports drinks regardless of thirst, and limit outdoor work or activities to early morning and late evening.
"Take breaks about ten minutes long in every hour that you're going to be outside. Stay in the shade as much as you can. Wear loose-fitting, light colored clothing, fabric that breathes," said Pollard.
Pollard adds make sure pets are cool and have plenty of water as well.
