How to Protect Yourself from the Summer Heat
Protecting Yourself From the Summer's Heat
The summer is finally here! Although many of us like to leisurely spend time in the sun whether it means going for a walk, doing some much needed yard work or gardening, or just enjoying the beautiful outdoors, it is important to be aware about how much sun we get to avoid heat-related illnesses like heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Prevention is the first step in keeping us all healthy through these hot temperatures! To protect your health when temperatures are extremely high, remember to keep cool and follow these tips:
• Drink plenty of fluids Increase your fluid intake regardless of your activity level. During hot weather, you will need to drink more liquid than your thirst indicates. Drinking plenty of liquids during exercise is especially important. Avoid drinks containing alcohol or caffeine because they will actually cause you to lose more fluid. Caution: If your doctor has prescribed a fluid-restricted diet or diuretics for you, ask your doctor how much you should drink.
• Wear appropriate clothing and sunscreen Choose lightweight, light-colored, loose-fitting clothing. In the hot sun, a wide-brimmed hat will provide shade and keep the head cool. Apply a sunscreen with a SPF 30 or higher and reapply often, as directed on the label.
• Pace yourself If you are unaccustomed to working or exercising in a hot environment, start slowly and pick up the pace gradually. If exertion in the heat makes your heart pound and leaves you gasping for breath, STOP all activity, get into a cool area or in the shade, and rest, especially if you become lightheaded, weak, or faint.
• Stay cool indoors The most efficient way to beat the heat is to stay in a cool or air-conditioned area. If you do not have an air conditioner consider a visit visiting a place that is air conditioned. Shopping malls, movie theaters and public libraries are usually air-conditioned and good places to visit to get out of the heat.
• Schedule outdoor
The summer is finally here! Although many of us like to leisurely spend time in the sun whether it means going for a walk, doing some much needed yard work or gardening, or just enjoying the beautiful outdoors, it is important to be aware about how much sun we get to avoid heat-related illnesses like heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Prevention is the first step in keeping us all healthy through these hot temperatures! To protect your health when temperatures are extremely high, remember to keep cool and follow these tips:
• Drink plenty of fluids Increase your fluid intake regardless of your activity level. During hot weather, you will need to drink more liquid than your thirst indicates. Drinking plenty of liquids during exercise is especially important. Avoid drinks containing alcohol or caffeine because they will actually cause you to lose more fluid. Caution: If your doctor has prescribed a fluid-restricted diet or diuretics for you, ask your doctor how much you should drink.
• Wear appropriate clothing and sunscreen Choose lightweight, light-colored, loose-fitting clothing. In the hot sun, a wide-brimmed hat will provide shade and keep the head cool. Apply a sunscreen with a SPF 30 or higher and reapply often, as directed on the label.
• Pace yourself If you are unaccustomed to working or exercising in a hot environment, start slowly and pick up the pace gradually. If exertion in the heat makes your heart pound and leaves you gasping for breath, STOP all activity, get into a cool area or in the shade, and rest, especially if you become lightheaded, weak, or faint.
• Stay cool indoors The most efficient way to beat the heat is to stay in a cool or air-conditioned area. If you do not have an air conditioner consider a visit visiting a place that is air conditioned. Shopping malls, movie theaters and public libraries are usually air-conditioned and good places to visit to get out of the heat.
• Schedule outdoor