Try to keep cool in the hot summer months

Health Matters
By Dr. Henry Unger

Q: My kids would prefer to stay outdoors all day during the summer months, but I am concerned about them becoming overheated. What can I do to let them have their fun and keep them safe?
A: Exposure to high heat and humidity can be harmful or even fatal, especially to children, people over the age of 60, and those who suffer from cardiac disease and certain disorders of the skin. Because these populations are particularly susceptible to heat-related maladies, it’s especially important for them to take precautions against the heat.
Illnesses commonly caused by extremely warm temperatures include heat cramps, heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Heat cramps can develop when a person spends a lot of time exerting him or herself without the protection of shade and without consuming electrolyte-balanced fluids.
Heat exhaustion can occur if a person becomes dehydrated, having failed to replenish fluids lost through sweating. Symptoms may include fatigue, dizziness, confusion and headaches — all of which can be reversed with plenty of fluids and rest.
Heat stroke — the most dangerous result of overexposure to heat — can be characterized by an elevated body temperature and altered mental state. In the event of heat stroke, medical intervention is immediately necessary. When the thermometer reads 90 degrees and the humidity is high, the body’s ability to rid itself of excess heat becomes overwhelmed.
The best method for safeguarding against dehydration and heat-related illness is to remain hydrated and cool. Water and sports drinks are the preferred beverages, since the high sugar content in juice and soda can delay the absorption of fluids by the body. Alcohol and caffeine should also be avoided, because they can make a person more susceptible to the adverse effects of heat.
And while an extra glass of water can help prevent dehydration, excessive fluid intake can be equally as dangerous to kidney and heart patients.
Many people, especially little ones, fail to recognize that they are thirsty because they are preoccupied with what they’re doing. It’s important for parents to stay on top of their children’s fluid intake — offering a drink every hour or so — whether they’re playing indoors or outdoors.
Pregnant women and people who have kidney or heart disease are also at an increased risk for heat-related illnesses and should use common sense regarding overexertion and fluid intake to prevent heat-related problems.
Some commonly used medications may also make people more susceptible to heat-related illness.
It’s a good idea for everyone to take a little extra time to allow his or her body to adjust when the mercury rises. Gradual exposure to the sun and heat, complemented by short respites indoors with the air conditioning or a fan, can help people acclimate to temperature variations more easily. The hazards of overheating can be further reduced through the following actions: wearing lightweight and light-colored clothing and a wide-brimmed hat; exercising only in the morning or evening; and going to cooler locations during heat waves — such as a mall or movie theater — if your home is not air conditioned. oo
Dr. Henry Unger is chairman of emergency services at Holy Redeemer Hospital and Medical Center.
If you have a question you would like answered by a Holy Redeemer Health System expert, send it to Jennifer McGowan, Holy Redeemer Health System, Public Relations, 1602 Huntingdon Pike, Meadowbrook, PA 19046, or send e-mail to jmcgowan@holyredeemer.com