Summer Is Here And So Is The Heat!

It’s hot! There’s no question that summer is here and as the days heat up, if you spend any time outdoors at all, your body will heat up as well.

According to the National Weather Service, extreme heat is one of the top weather-related killers this time of year and as the summer gets under way heat advisories have already become a daily issuance in many parts of the country.

And the dangers are not limited to outdoor activity. More than half of the reported heat-related tragedies of 2011 occurred in the home, where little to no air conditioning was available.

In these extremes, it’s important to know how to stay cool, no matter where you are, to prevent serious health issues like heat stroke.

Here are some tips to share that will help keep you and your family and friends cool this summer:

1. Thirst is not the best indicator of dehydration. Drink water throughout the day, not just when you’re thirsty.

2. Water, water, water: drinks with electrolytes may also contain caffeine and sugar which worsen dehydration.

3. Keep in mind that the following medications impair the body’s ability to cool down: diuretics, migraine drugs, antihistamines, and blood pressure drugs. Persons taking these types of drugs should be particularly careful in the heat and discuss possible limitations with their primary healthcare provider.

4. Pain relievers such as Tylenol or Advil do nothing to reduce body temperature and can cause more harm.

Heat stroke is a serious issue. It occurs when the body’s temperature reaches 105 degrees. Symptoms can include appearing flushed and confused, nausea, vomiting, dry mouth and lips and the inability to sweat.

Following these four tips during the hot summer months can prevent the onset of heat stroke and keep your body feeling healthy and cool.

While it is fun to spend the day soaking up the sun, it’s important to keep your good health your first priority.