Aspirus | Aspire | Spring 2019

Aspirus, Inc. 2200 Westwood Drive Wausau,WI 54401 Nonprofit Org. U.S.Postage PAID WallaWalla,WA Permit No.44 O YOUR body normally cools itself by sweating. But when it’s hot and humid, sweating might not be enough to cool you off. As a result, your body temperature can rise, sometimes dangerously, and you may develop a heat-related illness. Heatstroke, the most severe kind, can be deadly. Here’s how to beat the heat and stay safe: 1 Get ahead of thirst. Don’t wait to grab some water until your mouth is dry. Drink more than usual, no matter how active you are. If you have fluid restrictions or take water pills, be sure to ask your doctor how much you should drink in hot weather. 2 Chill inside. Avoid being outside during the hottest part of the day. If your home isn’t air-conditioned, stay cool in a public place like a shopping mall or library. 3 Sip smart. Steer clear of sugary or alcoholic drinks. They can actually make you lose more body fluid. 4 Time it. Save outdoor activities for cooler morning or evening hours. 5 Lighten up. Wear light-colored, loose-fitting clothes that won’t absorb the sun’s rays or trap heat. 6 Pace yourself. Don’t push yourself when you’re outside in the heat, especially if you’re not used to it. 7 Listen to your body. If you feel lightheaded or overly hot, get out of the heat and rest. Sources: American College of Emergency Physicians; Centers for Disease Control and Prevention; National Institutes of Health 7ways to help avoid a heat-related illness Latest podcasts Hear Aspirus experts discuss a wide variety of health topics by checking out our latest podcasts at aspirus.org/podcasts . Or look for “Aspirus Health Talk” on iTunes, iHeartRadio, Stitcher, TuneIn or Google Play. SIPSAFELY If you have fluid restrictions or take water pills, be sure to ask your doctor how much you should drink in hot weather. If you need help finding a provider, go online to aspirus.org or call the Aspirus Customer Contact Center at 800.847.4707.