By Cassandra Altamirano | PA-C, MPAS

Summer is a time to have fun!

Many of us enjoy outdoor activities like swimming, hiking, biking, and running, but summers in Arizona are very hot!  This heat can be dangerous and can cause people to become very sick or even die. Being out in the heat too long can cause dehydration and symptoms of dizziness, headaches, light-headedness, and fainting. If your body reaches too high of a temperature it can even impact organs like your kidneys and brain. Every year, people end up in the hospital due to heat related illness. Have fun, but be sure to have a summer safe from heat illness.

Here are the signs and symptoms of heat related illnesses:

Recommended tips to have a summer safe in the heat and prevent heat-related illness:

Bring water 

• Bring water with you everywhere you go. 
• If you are outside in the heat stay hydrated! Drink at least 1 cup (8 oz) of water every hour even if you do not feel thirsty.

Wear sunscreen 

• Wear at least 30 SPF sunscreen and remember to reapply every 2-3 hours especially if you are in the water. 
• People often forget to apply sunscreen on wrists, tops of feet, backs of hands, ears, and nose. Don’t forget these areas!

Wear the right clothes

• Wear a hat – a wide brimmed hat is best.
• Wear sunglasses to protect your eyes.
• Wear lightweight cotton clothing that covers your skin. 

Make safe choices

• Avoid outdoor activities during the hottest part of the day, 4 a.m. to 7 a.m. is generally the coolest time.
• If you are unable to avoid being out in the heat be sure to take frequent breaks to drink water and find shade to rest.
• Check in on your elderly neighbors, family and friends, people from out of town or those that may be at high risk.

If you have more questions about heat and hydration safety, talk to one of NOAH’s providers today.