Greensboro's African American Community Newspaper since 1967
Many times, when we think of warmer weather, inevitably, thoughts of good times dance in our heads. We often want to be outside, running around, enjoying the heat, the sun in our face, just chilling.
Once that heat index gets above a certain stage, the fun in the sun rapidly disappears, and our defensive mechanisms should be instituted. Problems can occur when we are unable to properly cool our bodies. Health problems may arise and even death, if the problem is not quickly recognized and addressed. This is particularly so for the infants, young children, pregnant women, older adults and people with chronic diseases.
It is important to pay close attention during hot weather days, especially if you are asthmatic or have heart disease.
So, some of the symptoms you should look for if you or someone is overheated are as follows: Dizziness, nausea, weakness, headaches, shortness of breath, excessive sweating and muscle cramps top the list. If these symptoms occur, take a cool shower, move to a shaded area, continue to hydrate and be ready to seek medical care, especially if nausea or vomiting occurs.
To avoid these problems, one of the first principles of living in the heat is to make sure you stay hydrated. While we all may know this, many people do not adhere to this important step in summer wellness. Sometimes people do not feel thirsty and thus do not realize when they should drink fluids. As a rule, if a person is outside in the heat, he/she should hydrate every 30 minutes. Plain water is great to drink, and it should be consumed often. Limit your intake of sugar, sodium, caffeine and alcohol. Just drink water. Monitor yourself by checking the color of your urine. If your urine appears clear or light yellow, you are most likely fine and well hydrated. If it is yellow, drink more water.
Take stock of your medications and ask your healthcare provider if they are okay to take in prolonged heat exposure. For example, a person’s diuretic medication dosage may need to be adjusted. Make sure that your medication is not exposed to the heat, as it could alter its effectiveness.
Take frequent breaks from the heat and the sun. Avoid being out in the sun between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Time your activities either before 10 a.m. or after 4 p.m.
If possible, stay inside in the air conditioning. If there is no air conditioning, try to be around a fan. Close the curtains to block out the sun and the heat, and again, stay hydrated. Seeking out public cooling stations or visiting the mall may help.
Your clothing should be lightweight, loose-fitting and light in color.
Remember to check in on friends and relatives who are older and may have chronic diseases. Protect young children and infants as they have no fear or knowledge of the danger.
Do not forget your pets. They also need water and protection from the heat.
When precautions are taken, a safe summer experience can be had in the heat. Protect yourself and those you hold dear.
