Parish Nursing Wellness Committee News

Summer Heat

 

Well August is here and it’s hot and humid. Many of us will be thinking of how to stay cool and to not be sick in the heat. Here are some things to remember:

  1. Drink plenty of non-alcoholic drinks. The alcohol will actually make you sweat more and cause you to dehydrate faster. It is recommended that you have the equivalent of a glass of water each hour you are out in the heat. Suggested refreshments: water, lemonade, tea, Kool Aid or other such drinks. Watch the sugar content in these though because the sugar will make your more thirsty and cause you to put on weight. 
  2. Rest frequently. Take time to sit down in the shade and allow your body to cool itself.
  3. Do not hurry for long periods of time. This may cause heat exhaustion.
  4. Wear loose breathable clothes (cotton, gauze, etc., NOT spandex.) Non-breathable clothes will hold in heat raising your body temperature.
  5. If it is very humid, please remember that you will sweat but it will not evaporate. You will get hotter quicker and cool slower.
  6. Remember that small children are going to dehydrate faster because they are smaller and retain fluids less so watch the little ones and help them to stay healthy.
If you have any questions, concerns or needs, please contact anyone on the Parish Nursing Committee and we will try to help you stay safe and healthy this summer.

Darlene Curtis, Parish Nurse