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Hydration, proper clothing important, expert cautions By Mary Elizabeth Dallas
SUNDAY, July 1 (HealthDay News) -- People who spend time outdoors during the summer should consider their heart health and take steps to avoid heat-related illnesses, says Dr. Alan Gertler, a cardiologist at the University of Alabama at Birmingham. "The heat of summer increases stress on the heart, particularly during exercise," Gertler said in a university news release. "Exercise and the air temperature increase core body temperature, and high humidity further complicates the situation because sweat doesn't easily evaporate from your skin." "Your body responds by diverting more blood to the skin to cool itself, which results in less blood flow to the muscles and consequently an increase in heart rate," Gertler continued. Warnings signs of a heat-related illness include: muscle cramps, nausea, vomiting, weakness, headache, dizziness, confusion, irritability, a body temperature above 104 degrees Fahrenheit and cold, clammy skin. "If you experience symptoms of heat-related illness while outdoors, stop what you're doing and get out of the heat," Gertler advised. "Drink plenty of fluids -- either water or a sports drink -- and remove extra clothing and wet down your body with cool water. If symptoms don't improve after 30 minutes -- or if you exhibit heat stroke symptoms -- seek medical attention immediately." Heat-related illnesses are preventable, Gertler said. He offered the following tips to help people avoid these conditions while enjoying outdoor activities in the summer:
"Monitor your heart rate while you exercise, and stay within the range prescribed by your doctor," Gertler said. "If you have an underlying heart problem, talk to your doctor before exercising in the heat." More information The American Heart Association has more summer tips for heart health. SOURCE: The University of Alabama at Birmingham, news release, June 18, 2012. Copyright © 2012 HealthDay. All rights reserved. URL:http://www.healthscout.com/template.asp?id=665880
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