Halting Heatstroke

Posted on August 11, 2009 in Health & Medicine, Recent Studies

Even the most avid of sun-worshipers need to practice caution in the final month of summer. Prevent heat-related illness by exercising safely with the following tips.

According to the American College of Sports Medicine, exercising can raise core body temperature by almost two 2 degrees every five minutes. When the sun rays are beating down on your back, skin temperature can rise to a dangerous level. Being out of shape or overweight, having a fever, wearing too much clothing or using supplements with ephedrine or ma huang can all slow the body’s ability to dissipate heat.

If you’re feeling dizziness or disorientation during a workout, take a break and find a place to rest in the shade. Gulp some water (preferably chilled with ice cubes). If you or one of your exercise buddies is still confused or hot after taking these steps, find a tub filled with ice or ice-cold water immediately. This helps the body regain its core temperature quickly.

The risk of heatstroke may depend on where you live, the New York Times reports. People who are accustomed to hotter temperatures year-round may find it easier to exercise in the summer months, as opposed to those in chillier climates. Most people can eventually adapt to the heat, but know your body’s limits.