Surviving the heat wave
Summer is here; and it is indeed offering us no mercy. So take precautions and do whatever you can to survive the heatwave that's been making our lives miserable. In extreme cases, the less careful ones suffer from sunburn, heat cramps, heat exhaustion and heat stroke.
Heat cramps involve painful spasms -- usually in the muscles of legs and abdomen -- along with heavy sweating. Symptoms of heat exhaustion include heavy sweating, weakness, and cold, plain and clammy skin, fainting and vomiting. If someone is having a heat stroke, he will experience hot, dry skin and a rapid and strong pulse and possible unconsciousness.
Precaution is the key. First of all, stay hydrated. Drink lots of water and other natural fluids. Don't wait till you get thirsty. Juicy fruits like watermelons come handy.
However, caffeine and alcoholic beverages ought to be avoided as they promote dehydration. Carry a water bottle everywhere you go.
Water can be used for other purposes in summer for staying cool. Apply wet towels and take long, cool baths to reap the benefits of the cooling effect of water. When you are at home, you might consider using a spray bottle to sprinkle water on your face for comfort.
Also, eliminate extra sources of heat like incandescent light bulbs.
Whenever possible, avoid going outdoors in the hottest hours of the day, reserving all the strenuous outdoor tasks for evenings and early mornings. Don't forget to apply sunscreen and use an umbrella if you must face the cruel sun.
Take special attention towards children and the elderly. Also, give attention to your pets. Even they are not spared of the heat. Give them a bath more regularly, and consider putting a cool towel on the floor. Make sure that they too, drink plenty of fluid to avoid dehydration.
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