Physicians Immediate Care, one of the region's premier providers of ambulatory and urgent health care, warns Treasure Coast residents to watch for signs of heat-related illness. "When people work, play or exercise in hot, humid places, body fluids lost through sweating causes the body to overheat," said Kenneth Palestrant, M.D., founder of Physicians Immediate Care. "Heat exhaustion causes a person's temperature to rise, but rarely above 104 degrees Fahrenheit. Heat stroke, on the other hand is a life-threatening condition, one in which the body's cooling system shuts down and internal body temperature may reach 105 degrees Fahrenheit, causing brain damage or damage to other internal organs," explained Dr. Palestrant.

Heat stroke may develop quickly. Symptoms include the following.

*Skin is pale, cool and moist

*Profuse sweating

*Faintness or dizziness

*Muscle cramps

*Headache, weakness, thirst, and nausea

*Increased pulse rate

Those who have heat stroke may be dizzy, confused, hallucinating, or lose consciousness. Unlike someone with heat exhaustion, skin is flushed, hot and dry. The person also may be hyperventilating. "As with any medical problem where there may be a question of severity or treatment, call a doctor," said Dr. Palestrant. "If heat stroke is suspected, call 911 immediately."

For mild cases of heat exhaustion, Dr. Palestrant recommends that the person rest in a cool, shaded area, loosen or remove clothing, and apply cool water to skin. They should also consume cool fluids such as water or sports drinks. Should you have questions or concerns, call Physicians Immediate Care at (772) 398-1588 or (772) 343-1774.

Physicians Immediate Care measures its success through patient satisfaction and extraordinary care. Physicians Immediate Care also offers employers professional services for workers compensation, routine exams, and drug testing. Physicians Immediate Care provides a convenient, cost effective alternative to emergency rooms and doctor's offices from their original facilities at 1900 SE Port Saint Lucie Boulevard and at 4007 SW Port Saint Lucie Boulevard in the Paar Center. Physicians Immediate Care provides prompt medical attention, with no appointment necessary, Monday through Friday 09:00 a.m. until 7:00 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday 09:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. For additional information call (772) 398-1588, or visit their website at www.immedcare.com.