What most people ignore when temperatures rise
We’ve heard it before, hydration is key in extreme heat. But something so obvious, commonly goes ignored.
Yuma has hit 90 degrees for the first time this year!
With temperatures heating up, we must remember that heat is at the forefront of weather related deaths in Arizona.
Here are some simple tips to make sure you don’t end up in the hospital due to the heat.
Of course, you want to limit your sun exposure, but what’s most important is what you’re putting into your body.
Teresa Baughn, a nurse at Yuma Senior Living, confirmed that dehydration is the main cause of heat related illnesses and deaths.
Most people simply don’t drink enough water. It’s recommended that people drink water every 15 to 30 minutes in order to keep the body efficiently hydrated in extreme heat.
When the temperature is nearing or over 100 degrees, Nurse Baughn suggests, “No alcohol, no soft drinks. You just want to make sure you’re drinking lots of fresh water throughout the day. And don’t wait until you get thirsty, because by that time you could be dehydrated by then.”
Those at higher risk this time of year, are the elderly.
According to the Center for Disease Control, hospitalizations for heat-related illness increase with age, especially for those 85-years-old and older.
Nurse Baughn also pointed out how people, especially the elderly, should be cautious of what medications you’re taking. There is a possibility there may be side effects like sun sensitivity or dehydration.
In addition to drinking sufficient amounts of water to prevent dehydration, you must keep your skin hydrated as well, by wearing sunscreen and protective clothing.
Protective clothing is described as wide brim hats, thinly lined clothing, and light colors because darker colors absorb more heat.
There’s also a chance of people, particularly those with weaker immune systems, to catch pneumonia due to frequent exposure to changing temperatures. For example, being in a cool A/C controlled environment, then stepping into extreme heat outdoors. The inconsistency of the temperatures may cause pneumonia, which in some cases could be deadly.
