| Heat waves can be unpleasant for everyone. For people with heart trouble, they can be dangerous. Whether you have a healthy heart or not, some simple choices can help you beat the heat and keep your summer heart healthy. Take it easy. Turn procrastination from a vice to a virtue by saving exercise or other physical activity (like yard work) for when the temperature is cooler. Evening and early morning are the best times. When you’re exercising or working, drink more water than you usually do. Cool is cool. Chilled air is the best way to beat the heat. Fans work, but only to a point. When the air is as warm as your body, sitting in front of a fan is about as helpful as sitting in front of a blow dryer. If you don’t have air conditioning, spending time in a movie theater, at a store, or visiting an air-conditioned friend can help. So can a cool shower or bath, or putting a cold, wet cloth or ice pack under your arm. Drink to your health. Your body is like your car — the lower your coolant level, the greater your chances of overheating. Unfortunately, staying hydrated isn’t always easy. Some medical conditions and medications might interfere. On dangerously hot and humid days, try downing a glass of water every hour (unless you have congestive heart failure — then check with your doctor first). Go easy on sugary soda and full-strength fruit juice (they slow the passage of water into the digestive system and blood stream). And don’t rely on caffeinated beverages or alcohol for hydration (they can actually cause or amplify dehydration). Eat light. Stick with smaller meals that don’t overload your stomach. Cold soups, salads and fruits can satisfy your hunger and give you extra fluid. Watch for warning signs of heat illness. Heat-related troubles can range from simply irritating (heat rash) to serious (heat exhaustion) to potentially deadly (heat stroke). Be on the lookout for: Nausea or vomiting Fatigue Headache Disorientation or confusion Muscle twitches If you think you’re having heat-related illness, or if you see signs in someone else, getting into an air-conditioned space and drinking cool water are the most important things to do. If these don’t help after 30 minutes, call your doctor. Watch the video below to learn more. |
These tips are part of a monthly series from Keyser, your employee benefits partner.