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| Keep Cool and Comfy In The Summer Heat |
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By: |
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Curt Hiller, BS, RRT, REG. — Respiratory Therapist, Littleton Regional Hospital |
Heat Stress (Hyperthermia) is a seasonal summer danger to all of us, especially the elderly and those with chronic illness. Your heart and lungs take on a physical burden in temperatures above 90 degrees and this increases with high humidity levels. Extended numbers of days with this weather pattern increase our risks of becoming ill and even death. This occurs when your body’s cooling system becomes overworked.
When our body struggles to cool itself through the normal perspiration process, it may cause medical problems such as: heat exhaustion, heat stroke, heat cramps, heart failure, stroke, respiratory distress, loss of appetite, or physical and mental changes. Other symptoms may develop, including: hot/dry skin with no sweating or moisture, extreme sweating, clammy skin, dizziness, throbbing headaches, chest pains, and rapid pulse.
Be alert and aware that your chances of becoming ill during hot weather increase if you suffer from any of the following:
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heart disease
poor circulation
alcohol use
chronic diarrhea
moderate or severe sunburn |
lung disease
history of stroke/CVA
fever/infections
certain medications |
hypertension
Overweight
diabetes
skin diseases |
Tips for Keeping Cool
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Prevent overheating situations by planning ahead. |
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Plan outside activities in the early morning or late evening. |
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Stay in the coolest part of your home. |
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Use fans or air conditioning. (Clean filters weekly.) Use energy comfort temperature levels. |
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Visit cool public areas, such as libraries, malls, theatres, Senior Centers, etc. |
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Take cool showers/baths to slowly reduce body temperature or use cool cloths/towels on wrists, neck, and forehead to cool off. |
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Wear loose fitting, lightweight, light colored clothes to allow air to circulate and your skin to breathe. Cotton fabric is most comfortable, along with wide brimmed hats and sun umbrellas. |
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Hydrate yourself with plenty of water, fruit, and vegetable juice (if you aren’t on fluid restriction with your doctor). Avoid caffeine, carbonated, and alcohol drinks. |
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Don’t wait until you are thirsty. Drink responsibly, |
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Eat light, low-fat food, fruit, vegetables, and snacks. |
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Avoid hot temperature and spicy food. Don’t cook inside during heat of day. |
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Use a buddy system if you live alone. Share chores and meals together. |
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Most important of all: Slow down, pace yourself, and enjoy the lazy, hazy, crazy days of summer!!! |
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