A Hot Time in Oak Creek

Since the topic of heat seems to be popular these days, and while I’m a big proponent of exercise, I do believe one should err on the side of caution in extreme heat. Why?

I decided to find out just exactly that. So I went to google and asked. Here’s what I found.

The first site was from Medline Plus, a service of the U.S. National Library of Medicine and National Institutes of Health. What they had to say was pretty much what the others said as well:

Your body normally cools itself by sweating. During hot weather, especially with high humidity, sweating just isn't enough. Your body temperature can rise to dangerous levels and you can develop a heat illness. Most heat illnesses occur from staying out in the heat too long.

Exercising too much for your age and physical condition are also factors. Older adults, young children and those who are sick or overweight are most at risk. Drinking fluids, replenishing salt and minerals and limiting time in the heat can help.

Heat-related illnesses include: 

Heatstroke - a life-threatening illness in which body temperature may rise above 106° F in minutes; symptoms include dry skin, rapid, strong pulse and dizziness.

Heat exhaustion - an illness that can precede heatstroke; symptoms include heavy sweating, rapid breathing and a fast, weak pulse.

Heat cramps - muscle pains or spasms that happen during heavy exercise.

Heat rash - skin irritation from excessive sweating.

How to avoid getting sick is a lot of common sense. Stay in an air-conditioned home. Go to an air-conditioned place like a mall. Use fans if you don’t have an air conditioner. Drink lots of water.

Often as we get older we lose our desire for water, but that doesn’t mean we don’t need it. Fill a pitcher with water in the morning and finish it by evening. Add a flavor to it if water itself isn’t enough to satisfy. Add lemon or orange slices or a drink mix.

Avoid anything alcoholic - it’s actually dehydrating. Sports drinks, (which I don’t normally recommend) can replace sodium, chloride and potassium which you lose through sweating. Avoid midday sun. Wear sunscreen. Go to water parks or pools. Wear loose-fitting, lightweight and light-colored clothing. Eat smaller meals. Wear a hat and sunglasses. Sit in the shade. Relax.

As of this writing, Oak Creek Parks and Recreation was extending open swim hours. For more info go to the city's website or call (414) 768-6515. Many nearby cities also have pools, water parks and such as well.

Now would not be the time to start an intensive outdoor exercise program. It can wait until next week.

Heat exhaustion and heat cramps are no laughing matter and are serious health conditions. You don’t want to go there. Be sure to take care of your body, it’s the only one you get. And be sure to check on neighbors, especially the elderly, small children and those without air conditioning. Be a good neighbor.