Health News
by Dr. Madelyn Fernstrom
Welcome to the dog days of summer, when the heat and humidity of August are on the rise. And while one of the most enjoyable treats of summer is exercising outdoors, it?s important to pay attention to the weather, to avoid getting overheated which can lead to heat exhaustion or the more severe heat stroke.
These heat-related ailments occur when exertion (from exercise) or outside temperature, or both, impair the body?s ability to regulate its temperature. When the body?s core temperature rises, organ and metabolic damage can occur. But this can be readily avoided, with adequate hydration, and adjustment of physical exertion depending on the outdoor temperature and humidity.
Check out the weather report before your activity. Pay attention to the heat index (increasing humidity that makes it ?feel? hotter outside) as well as the temperature. Make sure you hydrate before your activity (an extra 8-10 ounce glass of water is a good start), and bring some ice water along. Make sure to take frequent breaks, and wear light colored and lightweight clothing. Pay special attention to your student-athlete, especially those wearing heavy football gear. School coaches and trainers are well aware of these issues, but remind your child to listen to his/her body.
Are you at risk? If you?re feeling sweaty, and your pulse is racing, pay attention. These are both signs of overheating. Other symptoms can include reddened, hot or dry skin, dizziness, or nausea.
Heat-related illness can be readily avoided with breaks in the shade and plenty of water. Feeling some symptoms? It?s important to cool down quickly - take a cool shower, jump in a cold pool, or spray yourself with a garden hose. Always call your doctor if symptoms persist.
- Logan Co. Schools Work To Keep Kids And Bus Drivers Hydrated During Hot, Humid Days; Here Are Tips For Dealing With Heat
With temperatures soaring into the high 90s and the heat index over 100, the new Logan County school superintendent made sure the students and bus drivers were well hydrated last week, O.J. Stapleton reports for the Russellville News Democrat &...
- Tips To Keep Children Safe From The Dangers Of Summer Heat
While enjoying time with family on the boat, at church picnics, in the backyard or at the beach, be sure to keep kids safe during the summer heat. Heat can trigger three major illnesses, says Dr. Eric Kirkendall of Cincinnati Children's...
- Don't Leave Children In Hot Vehicles This Weekend, Officials Warn
With extreme heat blazing over the state this weekend, the Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services urges the public to avoid leaving children in vehicles. "Extreme temperatures are cause for concern, so we advise the public to take necessary steps...
- Drink Water: Your Colon Will Thank You
This weekend may mark the end of summer. But warmer weather this weekend mean you should be sure to pack lots of water for the park, beach or car. "Water is the most important part of a balanced diet," says Sinai Hospital gastroenterologist John Rabine,...
- Staying Cool In The Summer
As Baltimore residents stagger through another week of high temperatures, health experts once again are stressing the importance of staying hydrated. Chandresh Shelat, M.D., Sinai ER-7, spoke with WJZ-TV last week about the heat. "Your blood pressure...
Health News
Be Careful - It?s Hot Outside!
by Dr. Madelyn Fernstrom
These heat-related ailments occur when exertion (from exercise) or outside temperature, or both, impair the body?s ability to regulate its temperature. When the body?s core temperature rises, organ and metabolic damage can occur. But this can be readily avoided, with adequate hydration, and adjustment of physical exertion depending on the outdoor temperature and humidity.
Check out the weather report before your activity. Pay attention to the heat index (increasing humidity that makes it ?feel? hotter outside) as well as the temperature. Make sure you hydrate before your activity (an extra 8-10 ounce glass of water is a good start), and bring some ice water along. Make sure to take frequent breaks, and wear light colored and lightweight clothing. Pay special attention to your student-athlete, especially those wearing heavy football gear. School coaches and trainers are well aware of these issues, but remind your child to listen to his/her body.
Are you at risk? If you?re feeling sweaty, and your pulse is racing, pay attention. These are both signs of overheating. Other symptoms can include reddened, hot or dry skin, dizziness, or nausea.
Heat-related illness can be readily avoided with breaks in the shade and plenty of water. Feeling some symptoms? It?s important to cool down quickly - take a cool shower, jump in a cold pool, or spray yourself with a garden hose. Always call your doctor if symptoms persist.
- Logan Co. Schools Work To Keep Kids And Bus Drivers Hydrated During Hot, Humid Days; Here Are Tips For Dealing With Heat
With temperatures soaring into the high 90s and the heat index over 100, the new Logan County school superintendent made sure the students and bus drivers were well hydrated last week, O.J. Stapleton reports for the Russellville News Democrat &...
- Tips To Keep Children Safe From The Dangers Of Summer Heat
While enjoying time with family on the boat, at church picnics, in the backyard or at the beach, be sure to keep kids safe during the summer heat. Heat can trigger three major illnesses, says Dr. Eric Kirkendall of Cincinnati Children's...
- Don't Leave Children In Hot Vehicles This Weekend, Officials Warn
With extreme heat blazing over the state this weekend, the Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services urges the public to avoid leaving children in vehicles. "Extreme temperatures are cause for concern, so we advise the public to take necessary steps...
- Drink Water: Your Colon Will Thank You
This weekend may mark the end of summer. But warmer weather this weekend mean you should be sure to pack lots of water for the park, beach or car. "Water is the most important part of a balanced diet," says Sinai Hospital gastroenterologist John Rabine,...
- Staying Cool In The Summer
As Baltimore residents stagger through another week of high temperatures, health experts once again are stressing the importance of staying hydrated. Chandresh Shelat, M.D., Sinai ER-7, spoke with WJZ-TV last week about the heat. "Your blood pressure...