(WINSTON-SALEM) -- Sweltering heat is impacting all of North Carolina. Triple digit high temperatures are expected across much of central and Eastern North Carolina through the end of the week. This has medical profession again urging people to protect themselves.

Dr. Bret Nicks, emergency room physician at Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center, said heat exhaustion can quickly lead to a heat stroke. "When we look at heat stroke we're thinking about issues of extreme high body temperature typically above 103 degrees. The skin is typically red hot and patients will have rapid, strong pulses and frequently will describe throbbing headaches, dizziness, typically looking at issues of confusion and potentially even unconsciousness," said Dr. Nicks.

He added that the high humidity plays a factor because the moisture in the air does not allow the human body to cool itself as efficiently through sweating. Everyone who must be outside is urged to wear light colored, breathable clothing, take frequent breaks, and stay hydrated. Dr. Nicks said that means drinking at least 16 to 32 ounces of cool liquid every hour.

(Thanks to: WSJS)