Whether you’re working outdoors, tending the garden, or enjoying time with family, a few simple steps can help keep you safe in the summer heat if you’re living with a chronic condition.
It’s easy to overlook how heat can affect your body. Before you know it, dehydration, overheating or prolonged time in the sun can make managing your chronic condition more difficult. Understanding how heat can affect your health can help you stay safe in the sun.
Heart disease
Your heart works harder to cool your body in hot weather. Remember to drink plenty of water, plan strenuous activities for the cooler part of the day and take breaks to sit in the shade or cool off in the air conditioning.
Diabetes
Heat can affect your blood sugar levels and damage insulin that’s exposed to high temperatures. Stay hydrated, check your blood sugar more often and keep medications out of direct heat.
COPD or Asthma
Hot, humid weather and poor air quality make breathing more difficult. Keep an eye on air quality forecasts, carry your inhaler and spend more time indoors if your symptoms flare.
Arthritis
Heat can make you more tired and cause increased joint discomfort. Slow down, keep your water bottle handy and enjoy outdoor activities in the morning and evening when temperatures are cooler.
Mental health
Hot temperatures can contribute to fatigue, irritability and make it difficult to sleep. Keep your water bottle handy and reach out to your healthcare provider if you have questions about how your medications may interact with the hotter temperatures.
Summer is short in South Dakota. Taking a few precautions means you can enjoy the season to the fullest whether you’re watching the grandchildren play T-ball, canning vegetables to share with the neighbors or spending a day at the lake.
We’re here if you need us. If you have questions about managing heat in the chronic conditions or feel like you’ve spent a little too long in the sun contact your local provider.