Entry bubble Beat the Heat

By: Colleen | July 23, 2008 | Category: Health

hot sunThe oppressively hot and humid summers typical of our nation's Capital have reared their ugly head this week.

It is HOT HOT HOT!

What was the first indication of this? Me looking as if I just stepped out of the shower after walking from the Metro to Gov Gab headquarters. And no, it's not cute.

While temps in the 90's are mostly just the cause of some bad hair days and being uncomfortable, for some people they pose a serious health threat.

Senior citizens, small children, and people with chronic illnesses need to be especially careful when the mercury soars. They are most at risk for heat exhaustion, heat stroke, and sun overexposure. Check out this list of signs and symptoms of heat-related illnesses. To avoid these, do you best to stay cool and inside. Drink plenty of water to insure that you're properly hydrated. Wear loose clothing made out of materials like cotton that allow your skin to "breathe."

Friends and family of the elderly should try and visit them at least twice a day to check for signs of heat stroke and exhaustion. Take them to air conditioned locations if they have transportation problems. Make sure they have access to an electric fan. Sometimes local governments have programs to help out.

Enjoy the summer months, just be careful. It really makes me wonder how I survived those mid-August outdoor field hockey pre-season practices, but I suppose when you're 16 you can survive pretty much anything.

What are your tips to keep cool?

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