Tips to manage heat-related ailments
We all look forward to summer however the heat sets in very fast and most people are not prepared by the time they get their first sunburn.
There are a couple of common ailments linked to the heat for example:
- Dehydration
- Exhaustion
- Sunburn
- Heatstroke
It is predicted that we will have hotter than normal temperatures this summer and you should therefore make sure you are prepared so that you can protect yourself and your loved ones against these common ailments that can so easily make your holiday a difficult one.
Drinking enough water will be the most important thing you can do this summer. Each year there are hundreds of people that die as a result of heat related complications, so this can be very serious.
People that are more susceptible to heat related complications are:
- Elderly
- Those with chronic illnesses
- Those with a lack of access to cooling systems
- People doing strenuous outdoor exercise
- Young children
Here are some common heat-related ailments and how to manage them
1. Dehydration
Complication from dehydration are mainly as a result of the body losing too much fluid and this results in the body's electrolytes being out of balance. Taking electrolytes regularly throughout summer together with a sufficient intake of water will help avoid dehydration.
Eating water rich foods like watermelon and citrus fruit can help. Caffeinated drinks and alcohol can exacerbate dehydration. Symptoms of dehydration is a decline in cognitive and physical ability.
2. Heat exhaustion
Prolonged exposure to the sun and high temperatures can lead to heat exhaustion. Symptoms include dizziness, fatigue, nausea and extreme sweating.
Staying in shade, using sunscreen and stay hydrated can help avoid heat exhaustion
3. Sunburn
Sunburn leads to accelerated ageing as well as the risk of skin cancer. UV is the leading cause of skin cancer.
Ensure you use a high SPF sunscreen, wear protective clothing, sunglasses and hats and make sure you always look for shade.
4. Heat rash
Heat rash is caused by the blockage of sweat ducts and causes red itchy bumps. The only way to combat this is wear lose clothing, keeping the area clean, cool and dry and avoiding heavy creams.
5. Food-borne illnesses
Bacteria grows in warmer weather and load shedding doesn't help as foods are not kept as cool as they need to be.
Warmer temperatures can promote the growth of bacteria in food. Practice good food hygiene and wash hands regularly.
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