BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KERO) \u2014 Temperatures in Kern County are expected to climb into the 90s this week, potentially approaching or breaking the March record high of 94 degrees, prompting a local doctor to urge residents to take heat illness seriously and prepare now.<\/p>\n
While temperatures in the 90s are not unusual for Kern County, they are rare this early in the year.<\/p>\n
Dr. Kanksha Peddi of Bakersfield Memorial Hospital said residents should familiarize themselves with the warning signs of heat-related illness.<\/p>\n
“It’s really important to know the signs of illness, not limited to and including heat exhaustion as well as heat strokes,” Peddi said.<\/p>\n
Heat exhaustion occurs when the body overheats, causing symptoms such as feeling hot, sweaty, dizzy, or nauseous.<\/p>\n
“However, your body is still able to regulate its temperature,” Peddi said.<\/p>\n
Heat stroke is more severe and can occur when body temperature climbs above 103 degrees, and a person stops sweating. Symptoms can include confusion, dizziness, or feeling faint. Peddi said anyone experiencing those symptoms should not wait to seek help.<\/p>\n
“I would not wait and try to cool your body or use any cooling methods; I would seek medical attention immediately,” Peddi said.<\/p>\n
Certain groups face a higher risk in extreme heat, including children, older adults, people who are pregnant or nursing, and those with conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, or heart disease.<\/p>\n
“Because these patients are often on water pills, so diuretics, which remove water. So they’re often very dehydrated,” Peddi said.<\/p>\n
Staying hydrated is one of the most effective ways to prevent heat illness. Peddi recommends drinking about 8 ounces of water every hour rather than consuming large amounts at once. Other precautions include wearing hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen, and making sure home cooling systems are functioning properly.<\/p>\n
Peddi also warned that children should never be left in a parked car, even for a brief errand.<\/p>\n
“Be mindful of leaving your kids in the car, and take them with you wherever you’re going,” Peddi said.<\/p>\n
Peddi said the best thing residents can do right now is to start drinking more water before the hottest temperatures arrive.<\/p>\n
This story was reported on-air by a journalist and has been converted to this platform with the assistance of AI. Our editorial team verifies all reporting on all platforms for fairness and accuracy.<\/p>\n
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