What You Should Know about Coping with the Heat
The warm summer weather is here to enjoy but a heat wave can cause heat-related illnesses.
What is a heat-related illness?
Heat-related illnesses, heat exhaustion and heat stroke, are rare, but they are dangerous.
What are the symptoms?
The symptoms for both are similar: dizziness, headache, nausea, thirst and muscle cramps.
Your body keeps cool by sweating, so it is essential to replace lost fluids. If sweating stops and body temperature is high seek immediate medical attention.
How can I prevent a heat-related illness?
- Limit activities and stay cool in the shade or with air conditioning when possible.
- Drink plenty of water (whether you feel thirsty or not) to replace fluids lost by sweating. Sports drinks are ok and the good taste may help you drink more.
- Avoid coffee and alcohol, which can lead to dehydration.
- Avoid carbonated beverages which tend to make you feel full before you have replenished your fluids.
Listen to your body on those very hot days. The real danger is in ignoring the signs of heat exhaustion and toughing it out.