Health Watch is a Public Service of the Office of News and Publications and is intended to provide general information only and should not replace the advice of a medical professional. You should contact your physician if you have questions about any of these topics.
Summer is officially here, and that means hot days, vacations and outdoor activities. This week on Health Watch, we’ll have some tips on enjoying summer safely. If you spend the week cooped up in an air-conditioned office, you may eagerly head outdoors on the weekends, whether to play or work, but that could put you at risk for heat-related illness.
Dr. Paul Pepe, chairman of emergency medicine at UT Southwestern Medical Center, says people who are used to air-conditioning can get into trouble when they head outdoors because their bodies aren’t accustomed to the climate. To protect yourself in the heat, wear loose, lightweight and light-colored clothing. Drink plenty of water — but avoid caffeine, alcohol or too much sugar. Stay in well-ventilated areas. Use a buddy system to keep an eye on each other because when you’re affected by the heat, you might not realize you’re in danger.
Visit http://www.utsouthwestern.org/emergency to learn more about UT Southwestern’s clinical services in emergency care.
