Heatwave: 8 Essential Safety Tips from an Expert

With the heatwave underway, health experts emphasize eight key things to avoid to protect against high temperatures.

Dr. Martin Huecker, an emergency physician at UofL Health, warns of dangers such as cramps, dehydration, fainting, heat exhaustion, and heatstroke.

The tips include:

• Consider the UV index and heat index, not just the temperature.
• Don't let yourself get thirsty and replenish electrolytes.
• Avoid drinking alcohol to quench your thirst.
• Don't stay outside during the hottest time of the day (3-4 p.m.).
• Take frequent breaks from the sun.
• Watch out for insects and mosquitoes.
• Always wear sunscreen.
• Be aware of how certain medications (antidepressants, antihistamines, blood pressure medications, and antipsychotics) react to heat.

Pharmacist Michael Su from the Mayo Clinic in Florida, points out that some medications can affect heat tolerance, increasing the risk of dehydration and heatstroke.

Source: huffingtonpost.gr