Dog Days of Summer
“Dog Days of Summer” describes the excessively hot and humid period of summer, between July 3rd and August 11th each year. This year seems like we are right on schedule with both the heat and humidity.
All I can say is… It’s the middle of July and it’s doggone hot out there!
Summer can be the best time of the year to get outdoors to do all kinds of fun activities such as exercising, picnics, swimming, gardening, and so much more.The combination of both heat and humidity can also bring many health concerns. There are a few serious health concerns that can happen if we don’t play it safe in the sun.
First, did you know that some medications can cause extra sensitivity to the sun? Some medicines contain ingredients that may cause photosensitivity (a chemically induced change in the skin). Listed below are just a few medications that cause this sensitivity to the sun. Always be sure to check with your physician or pharmacist about the medications prescribed for you.
- Antibiotics (ciprofloxacin, doxycycline, levofloxacin, ofloxacin, tetracycline, trimethoprim)
- Antifungals (flucytosine, griseofulvin, voriconazole)
- Antihistamines (cetirizine, diphenhydramine, loratadine, promethazine, cyproheptadine)
- Cholesterol lowering drugs (simvastatin, atorvastatin, lovastatin)
- Diuretics (thiazide diuretics: hydrochlorothiazide, chlorthalidone, chlorothiazide.; other diuretics: furosemide and triamterene)
- Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (ibuprofen, naproxen, celecoxib, piroxicam, ketoprofen)
Second, heat exhaustion. It can be the result of your body overheating from high weather temperatures.Signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion may develop suddenly or over time. These can include:
- Cool, moist skin with goose bumps when in the heat
- Heavy sweating
- Faintness
- Dizziness
- Fatigue
- Weak, rapid pulse
- Low blood pressure upon standing
- Muscle cramps
- Nausea
- Headache
Heat Stroke can be the most serious of health concerns and requires immediate medical care. Heat stroke, also called sun stroke, is a serious, potentially life-threatening form of heat illness which results from prolonged exposure to, or physical exertion in, high temperatures. The hallmark symptom of heat stroke is a core body temperature above 103 degrees Fahrenheit. Heat Stroke symptoms can include:
- Confusion, agitation, and slurred speech
- Irritability, delirium, and seizures
- Your skin will feel hot and dry to the touch.
- You may feel sick to your stomach or vomit.
- Your skin may turn red as your body temperature increases.
- Rapid breathing.
- Headache
Heat Stroke is a medical emergency! Act fast. Call 911
It could mean the difference of life or death.
Heat exhaustion and heat stroke are preventable!
Some tips that will help you enjoy summer and stay safe:
Protect yourself against sunburn: Always apply sunscreen. Sunburn can affect your body’s ability to cool itself.
Stay hydrated: It will help your body sweat and maintain a normal body temperature.
Check with doctor or pharmacist about the medications prescribed for you: Some prescribed medications can affect your body’s ability to stay hydrated and dissipate heat.
Never sit in a hot car: When parked in the sun, the temperature in your car can rise 20 degrees F in 10 minutes.
Avoid strenuous activity in hot weather: If you must go out, try to plan activities in early morning or evening when it is cooler outside. Limit your sun time, especially between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
The CDC developed a helpful resource on Heat Related Illnesses, what to look for and what to do. Click here to view and/or download the poster.
Summer is such a beautiful time of the year and gives us so many opportunities to enjoy the great outdoors. Let’s be sure we’re taking precautions to make the most of summer while beating the heat.
