Staying Cool in the Summer

As Baltimore residents stagger through another week of high temperatures, health experts once again are stressing the importance of staying hydrated.

Chandresh Shelat, M.D., Sinai ER-7, spoke with WJZ-TV last week about the heat.

"Your blood pressure can drop; you can get confused," he said, and the consequences can be deadly without following common sense precautions.

According to the Centers of Disease Control and Prevention, the signs of heat stroke can include:

• Red, hot, and dry skin (no sweating)
• Rapid, strong pulse
• Throbbing headache
• Dizziness
• Nausea
• Confusion
• Unconsciousness

Heat exhaustion symptoms include dizziness, headache, fatigue, paleness and heavy sweating.

In extreme weather, those without air conditioning should take a shower or bath to cool down or move to an air-conditioned location. Wear light, loose-fitting clothing and, of course, drink lots of water. Remember to check on elderly neighbors.

Pets are also at risk in this hot weather - remember to make sure our friends with fur coats have plenty of water and access to cool spots. Never leave a pet in the car.

To learn more, read the CDC report on Extreme Heat: A Prevention Guide to Promote Your Personal Health and Safety.