The Chicago area is warming up fast this week as a major heat wave moves across the country. Temperatures are projected to remain in the high 90s over the next few days, with the heat index topping 100 degrees. However, this extreme weather is not a cause for panic. Dr. Marie Brister-Brown, a primary care physician at MetroSouth Medical Center, has tips for how to stay cool and avoid meltdown.
1. Dr. Brown encourages everyone to drink fluids. Staying hydrated in such heat is crucial; drink even if you’re not thirsty. Many times, thirst is a sign that you’re already dehydrated. Avoid alcoholic drinks or ones high in sugar content. Both actually increase dehydration and do not replenish bodily fluids efficiently enough.
2. Try to avoid going outdoors, especially during peak daylight hours. If spending time outside is necessary, however, wearing sunscreen and covering up is extremely important. Sunburn causes the body to additionally overheat. Dr. Brown recommends wearing loose fitting, light clothing in order to avoid long term sun exposure.
3. Avoid leaving anything, especially children and pets, in parked cars. The temperature in the cars increases very rapidly, and even short exposure to such heat can be deadly.
4. Make sure you keep an eye on those who are more prone to heat exhaustion and stroke, especially small children and the elderly. Many times, they do not have the ability to completely protect themselves, so keep a close eye on those nearby and contact authorities if you see any signs of heat stroke or exhaustion.
5. It’s important also to stay cool indoors. If your home doesn’t have air conditioning, cover the windows that let in a lot of sunlight. Keep fans running in order to keep air circulating throughout your home. If your home is too hot, seek a local cooling station or spend time in public places that would have air conditioning, such as the library or a shopping mall.
If you have any questions about staying cool in the heat or any other summer medical concerns, please contact Dr. Brister-Brown at 773-298-9800.
While you’re busy staying cool this summer, don’t forget to think about back to school. Be sure to schedule a physical for this upcoming school year with Dr. Brister-Brown at MetroSouth Health Center at Morgan Park before December 31, 2011 and receive a free AMC movie ticket or re-usable lunch bag.
