Preventing the Summer Meltdown
I think we can all agree that there is always much more fun in the sun. From the hot sands of Miami Beach to your favorite night club on a Saturday night, the summer warmth makes everything that much better. But too much of a good thing can lead to a whole heap of trouble. The summer heat can be extremely dangerous. Unfortunately, those who do not protect themselves will find that they are feeling hot for all the wrong reasons.
By: Kito Lord, M.D.
The symptoms are triggered by a combination of hot weather and the inability of the body to cool itself. Enhancers such as dehydration, overexertion and drugs can increase your risk for heat stress. And yes, no matter how good it may taste in a margarita, alcohol intake is another risk factor.
In the summer, your body sweats to help regulate your core body temperature. Sweat often gets a bad rap because of the armpit stains and smell that often follows. Yet, sweating is the body’s most efficient means of keeping you cool. There is, however, a caveat to the body’s amazing cooling system. The more you sweat the more your body loses water. This loss often leads to dehydration, which amplifies your chances to have CREFS.
Heat related symptoms may come suddenly or gradually appear, but the most important factor is being able to identify them. Simple changes such as a headache, fatigue or weakness can be some of the first signs you or a friend needs to get out of the sun and find a cool place to rest. More dramatic symptoms, such as fainting, chills and dizziness or confusion require immediate medical attention.
Some of the easiest ways to prevent heat stress are:
1. Drink ample amounts of water
2. Stay out the sun during peak temperatures
3. Jog and exercise in the early mornings and evenings
4. Wear loose fitting clothing
5. Avoid alcohol, caffeine and drinks with high sugar contents
6. Know the warning signs
Heat stress can lead to very serious symptoms and even death. But, lucky for us who enjoy our summer heat, it is very easily preventable. Remember, being heat smart can prevent heat stress.
Stay hydrated!!!
Kito Lord, M.D.
In the summer, your body sweats to help regulate your core body temperature. Sweat often gets a bad rap because of the armpit stains and smell that often follows. Yet, sweating is the body’s most efficient means of keeping you cool. There is, however, a caveat to the body’s amazing cooling system. The more you sweat the more your body loses water. This loss often leads to dehydration, which amplifies your chances to have CREFS.
Heat related symptoms may come suddenly or gradually appear, but the most important factor is being able to identify them. Simple changes such as a headache, fatigue or weakness can be some of the first signs you or a friend needs to get out of the sun and find a cool place to rest. More dramatic symptoms, such as fainting, chills and dizziness or confusion require immediate medical attention.
Some of the easiest ways to prevent heat stress are:
1. Drink ample amounts of water
2. Stay out the sun during peak temperatures
3. Jog and exercise in the early mornings and evenings
4. Wear loose fitting clothing
5. Avoid alcohol, caffeine and drinks with high sugar contents
6. Know the warning signs
Heat stress can lead to very serious symptoms and even death. But, lucky for us who enjoy our summer heat, it is very easily preventable. Remember, being heat smart can prevent heat stress.
Stay hydrated!!!
Kito Lord, M.D.
I think we can all agree that there is always much more fun in the sun. From the hot sands of Miami Beach to your favorite night club on a Saturday night, the summer warmth makes everything that much better. But too much of a good thing can lead to a whole heap of trouble. The summer heat can be extremely dangerous. Unfortunately, those who do not protect themselves will find that they are feeling hot for all the wrong reasons.
health.
About •
©2010 MiTyMediagroup all rights reserved.
advertisement
Connect with US