If you live in Southeast Texas, you are accustomed to the high humidity and summer heat. In fact, you can even cope with the heat with evaporative cooling. However, when the humidity is high, evaporation is inhibited. This causes a range of symptoms, including heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke. Heat related illnesses can cause long-term effects, so people with chronic conditions are most at risk. To avoid heat related illnesses, drink plenty of water and seek shade when you’re outside.
Staying hydrated
While you’re doing your favorite summer activity, don’t forget to stay hydrated. Not only does dehydration affect your performance, but it can also lead to dangerous health conditions such as heat stroke and heat exhaustion. Heat-related conditions account for hundreds of deaths each year, with people who spend most of their day outdoors at a high risk. While it’s important to drink plenty of water, the best way to stay hydrated is to eat more water-rich foods and beverages. Watermelon, for example, has a high water content, meaning it can keep you cool and help you stay active.
Drinking plenty of water is essential for staying hydrated, but some types of liquids can actually dehydrate you. Avoid sugary drinks, energy drinks, smoothies, and flavored milk. Fruit juices are high in sugar and can cause stomach upsets, so stick to water. Try to take along a water bottle with you everywhere you go and fill it at various stops during the day. It’s also a good idea to avoid alcoholic beverages, which can dehydrate your body.
Avoiding strenuous activity
Although the summer months are generally hotter, they can be beneficial for your health. Even if you live in an area with air conditioning, avoid strenuous exercise during the hottest parts of the day. Here are 7 ways to exercise safely in the heat:
Avoiding intense physical activities in the summer heat is a good idea no matter what your age or fitness level is. Staying active throughout the year is crucial for your physical health and emotional well-being. You’ll feel better if you’re physically fit. In this case, it’s wise to stick to light activity at early morning and late afternoon. A fast-moving summer storm can cause flooding, downed wires and trees and can damage electrical lines. Wear light-colored clothing to reflect sunlight and stay hydrated. Don’t consume alcohol and eat small meals during the day.
Taking breaks from the heat
Taking periodic breaks from the summer heat is much better for worker health than waiting until symptoms appear. The reason is simple: prevention is better than cure. In many cases, workers are at risk for heat-related illnesses if they wait until the symptoms start to show up. By then, the progression of the illness can be swift. Therefore, it’s best to implement a systematic program of periodic rest breaks. Here are some tips:
Staying hydrated is essential for your health. The heat puts tremendous pressure on the body. You’ll lose water more quickly and notice that your heart beat is rising. This is particularly dangerous if you’re a pregnant woman or young child. To avoid heat-related illness, plan regular breaks and make sure you have enough rest. By following these simple tips, you’ll be on your way to a healthy summer break.
Taking acupuncture to prevent heat stroke
If you are experiencing the symptoms of heat stroke this summer, acupuncture is a great way to relieve these uncomfortable symptoms. The heat of summer is especially dangerous in Arizona, where the temperatures can reach over 100 degrees. It’s critical to seek medical attention as soon as possible. However, if you already have symptoms of heat stroke, acupuncture can help alleviate your symptoms. Immediately visit an urgent care center or emergency room to get proper care.
There are many risk factors that contribute to heat stroke, including age. Those who are extremely young or elderly are prime candidates for heat stroke. Their bodies are not equipped to handle such high heat. People who are pregnant, elderly, and people with certain medical conditions are also susceptible to heat stroke. Acupuncture is an effective method of heat prevention, so it’s important to stay hydrated and seek medical attention if you experience these symptoms.
Avoiding exertion during the hottest part of the day
Although summer is very hot, there are some ways to keep yourself safe while exercising outdoors. In addition to wearing a light-colored hat, it’s also helpful to avoid exercising during the hottest part of the day, between 10AM and 2:00 PM, when the sun is at its highest. Exercising during this time puts you at greatest risk for heat-related issues and sunburn.
A good way to keep cool while exercising outdoors is to wear light, loose clothing. Light-colored and natural fibres are also recommended. And, if you do get sweaty, wear a hat! Avoid exercising in the hottest part of the day. Avoiding exertion during the hottest part of the day is essential for keeping the body cool and avoid heat stroke and heat exhaustion.
Avoiding heavy meals during hot days
The heat and humidity can be a challenge to your diet. You might be confused about which foods are best to consume during the summer months, and what are the best foods to avoid. Aside from keeping you cool and hydrated, avoiding heavy meals will also help you feel fuller for longer. But how do you avoid the heat without feeling like you have a balloon on your stomach? This article outlines some simple strategies that will help you avoid the pitfalls of cooking during the hottest weather.
Aim for light snacks and light meals on hot days. Food raises your internal temperature a couple of degrees. While you might lose your appetite on hot days, this is merely a normal part of the digestive process and not a sign that your body needs to eat. If you don’t eat, you might end up compounding the symptoms of heat exhaustion and not regaining your energy more quickly.