The key the preventing heat illness, dehydration
As the weather gets warmer, you’re at even greater risk for heat-related illness and dehydration.
When you overheat — whether it’s because of a sunny day, an intense workout, or a fever — your body produces sweat to cool down. Sweat is mostly made of water, so your body needs to stay hydrated to help you stay nice and cool.
Heat can be subtle in how it affects your body, so pay attention!
One of the easiest ways to tell if you’re dehydrated is by checking the color of your urine. If it looks clear or pale yellow, then you’re drinking enough water. But if your urine is a darker yellow or an amber color, then it’s time to hydrate.
Tips to avoid heat-related illness including dehydration.
- Pace yourself. If you are not used to working or exercising in the heat, start slowly and pick up the pace gradually. Take regular breaks and if your heart rate increases or you have trouble breathing, stop what you’re doing.
- Stay cool. Your body produces sweat to keep your temperature down and sweat is mostly water, so drink extra water to avoid overheating.
- Drink plenty of fluids. Drinking water is the best way to stay hydrated. Heavy sweating removes salt and minerals from the body that need to be replaced. Sports drinks can replace the salt and minerals you lose in sweat but watch out for drinks with added sugar and caffeine.
NOTE: If you are on a low-salt diet, have diabetes, high blood pressure, or other chronic conditions, talk with your doctor before drinking a sports beverage or taking salt tablets.
Heat is tricky when you’re managing a chronic illness
Extreme heat can be dangerous for anyone, but it can be especially dangerous for those with chronic medical conditions like diabetes. If you have a chronic medical condition, schedule an appointment at the CareATC Wellness Center. You’ll learn the symptoms to watch for and ways to stay cool this summer.
Three easy ways to schedule an appointment!
- Call 502.452.0777
- Create a new account at careatc.com/patients
- Download the CareATC app