With the weather forecast predicting a heat advisory for most of the central and southern states this week, HealthCARE Express wants to encourage everyone to take immediate precautions to stay safe and hydrated.
Drinking water is important every day of the year, but is especially critical during this time of extreme temperatures. To maintain a healthy water intake, make sure that you drink at least 1/3 third of your body weight in water each day. For instance if you weigh 150 pounds you would need 50 ounces of water daily which equals about 6 8-ounce glasses of water.
Staying hydrated is especially important for our older family members and neighbors so please check on anyone you know that is at risk. In addition to prevention of dehydration, older people who get enough water tend to suffer less constipation, use less laxatives, have fewer falls and, for men, may have a lower risk of bladder cancer. Less constipation may reduce the risk of colorectal cancer. Drinking at least five 8-ounce glasses of water daily reduces the risk of fatal coronary heart disease among older adults.
So when should you seek medical care?
- Increased or constant vomiting for more than a day
- Fever over 101°F
- Diarrhea for more than 2 days
- Weight Loss
- Decreased urine production
- Confusion
- Weakness
Take the person to a hospital’s emergency department if these situations occur:
- Fever higher than 103°F
- Confusion
- Sluggishness (lethargy)
- Headache
- Seizures
- Difficulty breathing
- Chest or abdominal pains
- Fainting
- No urine in the last 12 hours
Humans are not the only ones susceptible to these extreme heat conditions. Our family pets are at risk as well.
Make sure and give them a cool and shady spot with plenty of water. If at all possible, bring them inside during the day.
