Summer is a terrific time of year, but unexpected health issues like heat stroke or sunburn can really bring you down.  Here are some basic and easy ways to stay healthy this summer:

  • Drink lots of water – hydration is key.
  • Avoid the heat- you may overheat and have a heat stroke.
  • Seek shade whenever possible.
  • Wear hats and sunglasses for protection against the sun.
  • To avoid food poisoning don’t eat food such as meats, poultry, eggs, or mayo, left out of refrigerator for more than 1 hour when the temperature is over 90 degrees.
  • Wear lightweight, light colored clothing.
  • Avoid peak hours between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m.
  • Avoid strenuous activity during peak daylight hours.
  • Be careful about heat cramps. Heat cramps are muscle spasms that usually affect the legs or abdominal muscles, often after physical activity. Excessive sweating reduces salt levels in the body, which can result in heat cramps.
  • Be mindful of heat exhaustion. When the body loses an excessive amount of salt and water, heat exhaustion can set in. People who work outdoors and athletes are particularly susceptible. Symptoms are like those of the flu and can include severe thirst, fatigue, headache, nausea, vomiting and, sometimes, diarrhea. Other symptoms include profuse sweating, clammy or pale skin, dizziness, rapid pulse and normal or slightly elevated body temperature. Uncontrolled heat exhaustion can evolve into heatstroke, so make sure to treat the victim quickly.
  • It is possible to protect yourself from the threat of Zika and other mosquito-borne illnesses, such as Dengue Fever and West Nile by following these simple preventative measures:
  1. Do not leave doors or windows open.
  2. Mosquitoes lay eggs in standing water. To keep them at bay scrub or empty planters, vases, and flowerpot saucers.
  3. Turning on air conditioning; mosquitoes prefer warm, damp, and dark places.
  4. To prevent mosquito bites, use insect repellant with DEET and wear long-sleeve shirts and long pants.

Pet Safety Tips

  • Make sure your pet has fresh clean drinking water.
  • Provide shade for your pet to get out of the direct sun.
  • Never leave your pet in a hot car.
  • Use dog booties to protect paws and prevent burns, and blisters.
  • Exercise your dog in the morning or evening. Intense heat can overwhelm dogs.

The information provided is for general interest only and should not be misconstrued as a diagnosis, prognosis or treatment recommendation. This information does not in any way constitute the practice of medicine, or any other health care profession. Readers are directed to consult their health care provider regarding their specific health situation. Marque Medical is not liable for any action taken by a reader based upon this information.