Seasonal Health : Heat Safety
The heat of summer is upon us. When the heat index is hovering near the triple digit mark, just stepping outside can make you feel miserable. Here are some tips to remember for weathering the heat safely: If you work outdoors, you should stay hydrated. It’s best to avoid alcohol and caffeinated drinks like tea or cola. Instead try to quench your thirst with water or sports drinks with electrolytes. If you begin feeling fatigued, have a headache or rapid heartbeat, you should find a cool place to rest and take a break. Allow yourself time to cool down before heading back out. Ignoring symptoms could mean a trip to the emergency room. It’s time to seek medical attention if someone has a seizure, becomes confused or dizzy, feels short of breath or has skin that is hot to the touch, but isn’t sweaty.
To learn other ways to stay healthy this summer, log on to stj.com.
