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Summer can be punctuated by more intense heat waves than usual and on these occasions, certain activities can be dangerous. Here’s what a doctor would never do outside during a heatwave.
A heatwave has a clear definition: it is an episode of high temperatures, day and night, over a prolonged period (at least 3 days). This summer, France has not yet experienced this type of meteorological phenomenon, but the heat is definitely there.
Interviewed by the Huffington Post, Dr. John Schumann, executive medical director of Oak Street Health in the United States, reveals the 8 things he would not do during a heatwave.
It doesn’t just rely on the outside temperature
The doctor explains that it is important to plan your outings and to find out about “the UV index and the heat index”, that is, ultraviolet radiation and the degree of humidity in the air. These elements affect the temperature actually felt, so it is important to take them into account.
He doesn’t wait to be thirsty
“If you wait until you are thirsty to drink, you are already dehydrated“ reminds the doctor. It is therefore crucial to drink regularly to stay hydrated. Outside, this means having water or a hydrating drink on hand.
In addition, sweating a lot causes you to lose electrolytes, such as sodium, potassium, chlorine or magnesium, the doctor reminds us. Some brands sell drinks or powders to add to water to provide your body with the necessary electrolytes. “You can also simply add a little sugar or honey with sea salt to your drinking water.” to replenish your electrolyte supply, the expert recommends.
He doesn’t drink alcohol to quench his thirst.
When preparing a barbecue, it is common to open a cold beer to quench your thirst. But this is a false good idea, according to the doctor.If you’re someone who likes to drink, it can be refreshing. But when it’s this hot… alcohol will dehydrate you faster than you would otherwise. If you can avoid drinking, that’s much better.”.
He doesn’t stay outside during the hottest part of the day
The hottest time of day is usually between 10am and 4pm. During this time, the doctor avoids staying outside.
He doesn’t stay in the sun without taking breaks
If you have to spend the day outdoors, it is essential to take breaks so as not to be constantly in the sun. “You have to go to the shade or indoors regularly” “believes the doctor.”And this is to prevent heat-related illnesses.“
He is concerned about possible insect bites.
If you spend time outdoors, especially in tall grass, you should “beware of diseases transmitted by ticks“ recalls Dr. Schumann.”And the same goes for mosquitoes. Many people tend to go swimming in warm weather, but these insects often linger around bodies of water.”The doctor recommends using repellents to protect yourself.
He doesn’t forget his sunscreen
When it’s hot outside, Dr. Schumann says he puts on sunscreen and wears a hat to avoid sunburn.
He knows that some medicines react to heat and sunlight
Antidepressants, antihistamines, blood pressure medications and antipsychotics are particularly vulnerable to heat.”They can disrupt your brain’s heat regulation and the amount of sweat, putting you at higher risk of dehydration, heat stroke, andemphasizes the expert. It is therefore important to discuss the subject with your pharmacist in order to avoid any risk.
Slideshow: Heatwave, intense heat… What are the risks for our body?