Are you at risk for deadly heatstroke? Tips to avoid heat exhaustion, other heat illnesses [Video]

CLEVELAND, Ohio — This week’s jungle-like heat and humidity will just be a nuisance for some. But for older adults, children under 4, diabetics and those taking certain medications, it could lead to serious injury or death from heat-related illness like heatstroke.

Dangerous heat stresses the body and aggravates underlying conditions such as cardiovascular disease and asthma, according to health experts. Obesity and heart disease also increase the risk of heat illness, according to the Cleveland Clinic.

People who take diuretics to treat heart failure can be at risk for dehydration when temperatures climb. Chemotherapy drugs and beta blockers that are used to lower blood pressure and slow the heart rate can also increase the risk of heat illness.

When a body gets overheated, the heart may beat faster in order to pump more blood to your skin where heat can be released. As a result, other parts of the body may not get enough …