Is summer your favorite season? As fun as summer can be, it can also bring very high temperatures. And, the number and intensity of heat waves have only increased in the past few years.
People try to beat the heat by going to beaches and pools and using air conditioners and fans.
However, heat strokes are common in this season, and they can be very serious. So, you might want to know the answer to the common question, “How Can I Prevent Heat Stroke?”
There are things you can do to prevent them, and in this article, we’ll explore the different ways you can help preserve your health.
How Can I Prevent Heat Stroke?
The good news is that preventing a heat stroke can be entirely possible! It is not as complicated as some other conditions. Here are some ways to avoid heat strokes from occurring:
1. Rehydrate, But Watch What You Drink
First, rehydrate, but be sure that you do so with the right types of drinks.
You assist your body by replenishing the fluids it has lost. Take an active approach to consuming more than your typical amount of water or sports drinks.
Maintaining the ability to sweat and regulate your body temperature requires adequate hydration. It usually is recommended to drink 6-8 glasses of 8-ounce cups of water per day.
On the other hand, when you are exposed to extreme heat, drink a cup of water every 15-20 minutes.
It is important to steer clear of beverages containing excessive amounts of alcohol, caffeine, soda, or fruit juice because they all lead to dehydration.
In particular, if you drink an excessive amount of alcohol, it can impair the body’s capacity to maintain a normal temperature.
2. Wear Light And Loose Fitting Clothes
Second, pick out clothes that are loose-fitting, lightweight, and light in color.
If you wear too much clothing or clothes that are too tight for you, it will prevent your body from cooling down as it should.
When temperatures are high, wearing too much clothing restricts your body’s ability to cool itself down through sweating.
Light-colored clothing will also help you stay cooler compared to dark-colored clothes.
3. Avoid Being Outdoors As Much As Possible
Third, limit your sun exposure as much as possible on days with dangerously high temperatures.
Make every effort to remain indoors, preferably in areas that have air conditioning.
Even just a few hours in an air-conditioned building can help your body remain cooler when you return to the heat. Reduce the time you spend using your stove and oven to lower the temperature in your home.
If your home does not have air conditioning, consider going to a well air-conditioned area. Some good options include grocery stores, shopping malls, museums, public libraries, coffee shops, and movie theaters.
4. Take A Cool Shower Or Bath
Next, a sure way to cool off quickly and effectively is a cool shower or bath. Ensure that you wet your hair.
A cool or cold shower can feel refreshing. If you turn the heat up a bit, however, this can cool you once you step out of the shower through evaporative cooling.
5. Avoid Strenuous Exercise
Finally, plan any strenuous activities, such as exercise or manual labor, for the cooler times of the day, such as early morning or evening when the sun is less intense.
Take frequent breaks in cool, shady areas to give your body a chance to recuperate.
Following the above tips can help you avoid a heat stroke and other heat-related illnesses. To learn more about heat-related strokes, read our article What is a Heat Stroke?