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| Photo Credit: Sarah Landicho |
| If you start to feel lightheaded in the heat, sit down and rest – and be sure to drink plenty of hydrating fluids. |
I have several friends who “don’t like to sweat.” Sure, it’s not comfortable (or attractive) to get all wet at an outdoor wedding or during a big presentation, but if you spend any time working or playing outside in the summer, you learn to appreciate the sticky, salty perspiration that naturally cools your body.
While most folks are familiar with the risk of hypothermia in wintertime, fewer people realize summer’s heat and humidity bring on the risk of hyperthermia. This broad term refers to the rise in body temperature that causes heat-related illnesses – from minor heat rash to life-threatening heatstroke. Like Mom always said, “Prevention is the best medicine.” With that in mind, here are a few tips to follow when trying to beat the heat: - Avoid outdoor activities during the hottest part of the day. (Yes, this includes gardening.)
- Stay hydrated by drinking water often – even if you’re not thirsty. Don’t drink caffeinated beverages or alcohol.
- Avoid overexertion. Take frequent rests – preferably in the shade – while you work outside.
- Wear light-colored clothing to reflect the heat. (Be sure to apply sunscreen to exposed skin.)
If you do spend a lot of time outside in summer, you may witness or experience a heat-related illness. So be aware of the signs, because it’s vital to quickly recognize any problem so you can treat it before it becomes serious. If you ignore the symptoms, it could progress to a deadly heatstroke. Here’s a look at each potential heat-related danger, progressing from least serious to most serious: Heat rash- Signs: Blocked sweat ducts swell, causing discomfort and itching.
- Treatment: Heat rash will go away naturally after a few days. Stay in a cooler, less humid environment than outside, and avoid using ointments or creams that keep the skin warm and moist. A light powder may offer some relief to the affected area.
Heat cramps- Signs: Muscular pains and spasms occur due to heavy exertion – it’s an early signal that the body is having trouble with the heat.
- Treatment: Move to a cooler area and lightly stretch the affected muscle. Replenish your body’s fluids by drinking a half-glass of cool water every 15 minutes.
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