STAYING HEALTHY IN SUPER HOT WEATHER
A record-breaking heat wave is sweeping the United States, with some temperatures reaching into the triple digits. Not only are the high temperatures uncomfortable, they can cause serious complications for your heart. Here are some tips on staying heart-healthy in this heat:
1. Watch the clock: Try to avoid being outside during the hottest part of the day - generally noon to around 3 or 4 p.m.
2. Slow down: Strenuous activities, such as exercise, should be reduced or rescheduled to cooler times, such as early morning or late evening.
3. Dress for the weather: wear lightweight, light-colored clothing. It reflects heat and sunlight, and helps your body maintain normal temperatures.
4. Drink plenty of water and other fluids: You can become dehydrated long before you actually become thirsty and your body needs water to keep cool.
5. Avoid alcoholic beverages: They may speed up dehydration and make your heart work harder.
6. Spend more time in air-conditioning: It significantly reduces danger from the heat.
7. Limit your time in the sun and wear sunscreen: Not only does the sun heat your body, but sunburn makes it that much harder for the body to dissipate heat.
8. Health conditions or advanced age may put you at risk: Take special precautions if you have heart disease, high cholesterol, history of stroke, diabetes, are overweight or elderly.
Your body is designed for heat and works to maintain your normal body temperature of 98 degrees, however, during hot weather, especially the hot and humid days, your heart can face some pretty serious strain.
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