Summer is in full swing in New York City, and with it comes hot and humid weather. While most people enjoy the warm weather, it can be dangerous for some people, especially the elderly, young children, and those with chronic health conditions. Heat illnesses can range from mild to severe, and even deadly.
Here are some tips on how to safeguard your loved ones from heat illnesses :
Stay hydrated. Drink plenty of fluids, even if you don’t feel thirsty.
Avoid sugary drinks and alcohol, which can dehydrate you. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends drinking 8 glasses of water per day, but you may need to drink more if you are sweating a lot or if the weather is very hot.
- Stay cool. Stay in an air-conditioned environment as much as possible. If you don’t have air conditioning, go to a public library, mall, or other cool place. Take cool showers or baths, and wear loose-fitting, light-colored clothing.
- Stay cool. Stay in an air-conditioned environment as much as possible. If you don’t have air conditioning, go to a public library, mall, or other cool place. Take cool showers or baths, and wear loose-fitting, light-colored clothing.
- Check on your loved ones regularly, especially the elderly and those with chronic health conditions. Make sure they are drinking fluids and staying cool.
If you think someone is experiencing a heat illness, call 911 immediately. Here are some signs and symptoms of heat illness:
- Heat cramps: Muscle cramps, especially in the legs and abdomen.
- Heat exhaustion: Heavy sweating, pale skin, headache, dizziness, nausea, and vomiting.
- Heat stroke: The most serious heat illness. Symptoms include hot, dry skin, confusion, seizures, and loss of consciousness.
According to the CDC, heat-related illnesses are responsible for an average of 658 deaths each year in the United States. The Bronx is one of the boroughs of New York City that is most vulnerable to heat-related illnesses. This is because the Bronx has a high population of elderly people and people with chronic health conditions.
By following these tips, you can help keep your loved ones safe from heat illnesses this summer.
If you have any questions about heat illnesses, please contact Parkchester Medical Center at 718-828-6610. Our team of experts can help you stay safe and healthy this summer.
