Health Tips for June 21

Health Tip: Prevent Heat-Related Illness

As the weather heats up, illnesses ranging from heat exhaustion to heatstroke become more common.

The U.S. National Library of Medicine suggests how to help prevent heat-related medical emergencies:

• Wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothing.
• If working outdoors, take frequent breaks in the shade or indoors.
• When weather is particularly hot or humid, avoid heavy exercise or physical activity.
• Increase your fluid intake.
• Avoid becoming overheated, especially if you're elderly, overweight or taking a medication that affects your body's heat regulation.
• Let your car cool down before you get inside.

Health Tip: If You Have Symptoms of Heat Exhaustion

Heat exhaustion may affect people who spend hours in the sun or very hot weather without drinking enough fluids.

Symptoms of heat exhaustion may include heavy sweating, pale skin, muscle cramps, fatigue and weakness, dizziness, headache, nausea or fainting.

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention suggests how to cool down when you have symptoms of heat exhaustion:

• Drink plenty cool, non-alcoholic beverages.
• Get enough rest.
• In cool water, take a sponge bath or shower.
• Stay inside in an air conditioned building.
• Wear lightweight clothing.