Summer Health Risks Guide for Women

These summer health tips will help women stay cool during the long, hot days of summer.

1. Know the Signs

It is important to know what to look for, if you suspect that you or someone else has had too much exposure to heat. With heat exhaustion there is a general weakness, headache, nausea and disorientation. The complexion will be pale, and the skin clammy to the touch. Making sure the person sits down to rest, a drink of water and cool, wet washcloth will help the person feel better, soon.

2. Dress for the Heat

Whenever possible, wear light-weight and loose-fitting clothing. If outside, sure that your clothes are light in color as well. Darker colors seem to attract the sun's heat more that lighter colors do.

3. Drink! Drink! Drink!

Drinking plenty of fluid helps the body to cool when it is hot. If you are working outside, where you are sweating a lot, you might consider drinking some sports drinks. They help to keep your body's electrolytes in balance.

4. Alcohol and caffeine - not a good idea

Because alcohol and caffeine work as a diuretic in the body, causing you to loose even more fluid than necessary; it is best to limit the intake of these. And for sure, never - never - never drink alcohol to quench thirst. A good stand-in would be a nice, cold glass of fruit juice.

5. Exercise

If you like to exercise to keep fit, keep it up. In order to maintain good health though it might be a good to moderate your exercise somewhat, so it is not so hard on your body. Try exercising first thing in the morning, or in the evening when it is cooler. If it is not possible to go at these times; try a less intense form of exercise, such as a good speed walk instead of jogging. It is just as effective, and less hard on the body.

6. Protect your skin

When outdoors keep your skin protected from the sun's harmful rays. A good sunscreen will help to keep your skin moisturized, as well as protected.

7. Medication

If you take any medication, ask your pharmacist if any of it will make your body more sensitive to the sun. Some medication will cause the skin to burn if exposed to the sun.

8. Children/Pets

Children and pets cannot take care of themselves, so it is up to you do do it for them. The things that make you more comfortable, will make them more comfortable. They need plenty of fluids as well.

9. Get Plenty of Rest

Extreme heat is hard on any body, no matter what the age is. It is important that you take a rest break whenever possible, and whenever necessary.

10. Keep Gas in the Car

It could be devastating on your health, and that of your children if you were stranded in the heat of the day because your car ran out of gas. A good rule of thumb would be to not let it go below a quarter of a tank before filling the tank up.

Following these tips can make a big difference in enjoying good health, and enjoying the wonderful days of summer.