Cooling It in Hot, Humid Weather

“COOLING” IT IN HOT, HUMID WEATHER

It is that time of year again – Kentuckiana is stuck with a daily, unchanging forecast of “hot and humid”. It is very important to protect your health and the health of your loved ones by following these “cooling it” tips below:

1.  Drink lots of fluids – water being the drink of choice in this weather. Do not even wait until you are thirsty to drink. Instead, increase your water intake and drink it regularly. Stay away from alcohol and drinks which contain large amounts of sugar. Also remember to be careful with extremely cold drinks as they can cause stomach cramps. ****If you are limited by doctor's orders on the amount of fluid you drink in a day and/or taking water pills, ask your doctor how much you should drink when the weather is hot.

2.  Replenish salt and minerals – sweating will remove these from your body and they must be replaced. A sports beverage my be just what the doctor ordered! However, be sure to check with your doctor if you are someone who is on a low-salt diet. Also, ALWAYS carefully read labels so that you are aware of what you are consuming and in what amount.

3.  Dress appropriately for the heat – wear lightweight, light-colored and loose fitting clothing.

4.  Wear sunscreen – use SPF 15 or higher. Keep in mind that today the most effective sunscreens will be labeled “broad spectrum” or “UVA/UVB protection”. You should cover all exposed parts of your body ½ hour before going outside. Be sure to reapply as outlined in the package directions.

5.  Schedule outdoor activities wisely – attempt to spend time outside in the early morning and evening hours, steering clear of the heat of the day. Be tuned into your body and know when to rest and for how long.

6.  Stay cool indoors – If at all possible stay inside somewhere that has air conditioning. You can also take a cool bath or shower to cool off. Avoid using your stove and oven on days of extreme heat.

7.  Avoid eating hot and/or heavy foods which add heat to your body.

8.  Slow down your normal pace when ambulating.

9.  Draw shades, curtains and blinds in your home to block sunlight.

10.Know the warning signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke.

HEAT EXHAUSTION:

*  Heavy sweating

*  Paleness

*  Muscle cramps

*  Weakness

*  Dizziness

*  Headache

*  Nausea or vomiting

*  Fainting

HEAT STROKE:

*  Extremely high body temperature

*  Red, hot and dry skin (no sweating)

*  Rapid, strong pulse

*  Throbbing headache

*  Dizziness

*  Nausea

*  Confusion

*  Unconsciousness

Call for medical assistance if you suspect heat exhaustion or heat stroke. While waiting for assistance you should cool the victim using whatever method you have available to you. If assistance is delayed, call a hospital emergency room for instructions.

Be safe – stay cool!

Posted Friday, 07/22/11, 03:23 PM - Comments - Category: Safety

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