Many people
are at risk of developing heat related injuries due to record heat this summer
in many parts of the United States and world. Heat stroke is the most serious of heat related illnesses and can
cause death. Heat exhaustion is the
next serious and can turn to heat stroke if not treated aggressively and
appropriately.
Learn about the symptoms, prevention and first aid for heat
stroke and heat exhaustion so you can recognize them if they surface in
yourself or someone you know. These are medical emergencies (especially heat
stroke), so call 911 or seek emergency medical care if you think they are
occurring.
Try these
four tips to say cool in hot weather and reduce your risk of developing heat
related medical problems.
- Don’t go outside between the hours of 10 AM to 4 PM. The heat and sun is at their strongest during this time. I f you have to be outside, stay in shaded areas as much as possible. Exercise in an air conditioned gym or one with fans, or, if you work out in the outdoors, do it early, so you finish before 10 AM or, late in the day and start after 4 PM, so you avoid the hottest portion of the day.
- Drink plenty of cool fluids with ice such as water, mineral water, or sports drinks (look for low sugar varieties). Limit your caffeine intake as it makes you urinate more.
- Wear light colored and lightweight cotton clothing. Light colors help to deflect heat and cotton is a breathable type of fabric. Stay away from dark colored clothing which absorbs heat. Also stay away from clothing made of nylon, rayon, polyester, spandex, silk and wool; these fabrics hold in the heat and you’ll feel hotter, faster.
- Consume plenty of fruits with a high content of water such as watermelon, cantaloupe, honeydew and oranges. These help to maintain fluid in the right places in your body.
