Summertime fun often involves playing outdoors and lying in the sun. But too much heat—especially when it’s coupled with stifling humidity—can put you at risk for heat stroke.

Heat stroke is a bit of a misnomer says Dr. Rhena Ruiz-Novero, a family medicine specialist at Coral Gables Hospital in Coral Gables, FL. “It’s not a stroke, but it appears as one,” she says. When the body’s temperature ticks past 103 degrees Fahrenheit, stroke-like symptoms, such as throbbing headache, dizziness, nausea, confusion and unconsciousness, can occur. The skin may also feel hot and dry, says the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

People under age 5 and over age 65 are at greatest risk because their bodies are not as efficient at cooling themselves down. Those suffering from fever, dehydration, obesity, heart disease or mental illness are also at increased risk, as are those with sunburn (which further decreases your body’s ability to cool itself). Medications for Parkinson’s disease, psychotropics, certain tranquilizers and diuretics also increase your risk.

Stay Hydrated and Cool
Chill out in hot temperatures to protect yourself from heat stroke. "If it's very hot and humid you should avoid exercising outside,” Dr. Ruiz-Novero says. “When relative humidity is over 75 percent and it’s over 95 degrees outside, your body can no longer keep up with cooling itself down.”

If you must be outside on blistering days, drink a lot of water but avoid caffeine and alcohol. Eat small meals and limit your protein intake, which can increase metabolic heat as it’s digested. Drink 16 to 32 ounces of cool fluids every hour, says the CDC.

Get Help
Heat exhaustion, which causes pale skin, muscle cramps and dizziness, may precede heat stroke but not always. Dr. Ruiz-Novero suggests moving to a cooler environment and rehydrating yourself or the person affected. If symptoms get worse, seek medical help right away. Wrap the individual in cool, wet towels or submerge him or her in a cold bath while waiting for help, says the American Red Cross.

In the end, remember to take it easy in extreme heat and drink lots water. Being aware of the body’s internal thermostat can help protect you and your family from one of summer’s more dangerous ills.