As the sun is out longer and the days are getting hotter, here is some information from the National Institutes of Health about staying cool in the summer heat.
Your body is always working to keep a balance between how much heat it makes and how much it loses. Too much heat causes sweating. When the sweat dries from your skin, the surface of your body cools and your temperature goes down.
But being hot for too long can be a problem. It can cause several illnesses, all grouped under the name hyperthermia.
Don’t worry, there are things you can do to lower your risk of heat-related illness:
- Drink plenty of liquids – water, fruit or vegetable juices. Aim for eight to 10 glasses every day. Heat tends to make you lose fluids, so it is very important to remember to keep drinking liquids when it’s hot. Try to stay away from drinks containing alcohol or caffeine.
- Dress for the weather. Some people find natural fabrics such as cotton to be cooler than synthetic fibers. Light colored clothes feel cooler. Don’t try to exercise or do a lot of activities when it’s hot.
When it’s hot outside, remember…
- Headache, confusion, dizziness or nausea could be a sign of a heat-related illness.
- Get out of the sun and into a cool place – air conditioning is the best.
- Drink fluids, but avoid alcohol and caffeine. Water, fruit or vegetable juices are good choices.
- Shower, bathe or at least sponge off with cool water.
- Lie down and rest in a cool place.
- Visit your doctor or an emergency room if you don’t cool down quickly. QCBNFor more information about Highgate Senior Living and all the ways we help our residents enjoy the highest quality of life possible, please contact the Prescott Highgate Senior Living Community. www.highgateseniorliving. com 1600 Petroglyph Point Dr, Prescott, AZ. 86301 928-227-1592.
Written by Monika Einsporn, the community relations coordinator at Highgate at Prescott, a senior living community. She can be reached at 928-541-1400. F
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