As temperatures rise, so do hospital visits for heat-related illnesses. Healthy adults and children need to take certain precautions in order to avoid suffering a heat stroke while having fun in the summer sun.
Severe heat-related illnesses have the potential to actually cause damage to the brain. Moreover, for those with chronic health conditions, high temperatures can exacerbate their condition.
People who suffer from chronic migraines, skin diseases, respiratory illnesses, and autoimmune conditions need to pay especially close attention to the temperatures during summertime. For these people and for everyone else, here are a few ways to help prevent heat stroke during the summer:
Stay Hydrated
Having a bottle of water with you at all times and staying hydrated provides your body with what it needs to regulate your temperature naturally. In addition, be mindful of the type of liquids you drink: For instance, alcohol and coffee are diuretics and can, therefore, dehydrate your body instead of providing hydration.
Pace Your Physical Exertion
Heat stroke usually occurs when great physical exertion meets high temperatures. The hottest hours of the day are generally between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., so you will want to avoid extreme physical exertion during this period of the day. Consider starting your exercise or sport early in the morning, and continue in the afternoon. (Enjoy a nice long lunch!)
Consider Your Medications
If you are taking medication for a chronic illness, a common side effect is often dehydration. You may want to talk to your doctor about how to maintain internal balance without needing to completely give up a fun time in the sunshine.
Use Body-Cooling Products
There are many different kinds of cooling products available on the market today. Examples include handheld misting fans, cooling towels, cooling headbands, neck wraps, and ice vests. A simple wet towel also works – just wrap it around your head or neck.
Wear a Hat
A wide-brimmed hat works best to keep the summer sun from directly hitting your face. The hat has to be comfortable and must not give you a constricted feeling in your head.
See a Doctor if You Exhibit Symptoms of Heat Stroke
Symptoms of heat stroke include dizziness, difficulty breathing, dry mouth, weakness, and a feeling of passing out or vomiting. You may also notice that you are no longer sweating.
Disease Management and Wellness Services in Denton and Frisco, Texas
If you or a loved one is exhibiting symptoms of heat stroke, seek medical help immediately. Make sure each member of the family knows the symptoms of a heat stroke so you can act appropriately.
Summers in Texas can reach unbearable temperatures. If you have been diagnosed with a chronic illness, be particularly aware of the summer heat so you can safely take part in summer activities.
Here at Star Medical Associates, we provide the highest-quality disease management and wellness services. If you have any questions or would like to schedule an appointment, call our Denton office at (940) 382-6900 or our Frisco office at (469) 301-2300. You can also complete our appointment request form online now. We look forward to seeing you!
