DALLAS, Aug 18, 2009 (UPI via COMTEX) -- Physicians report seeing more weekend
warriors being treated in emergency rooms for heat-related illnesses, a U.S.
expert says.
"In the past, the typical people who used to get in trouble were the ones who
couldn't fend for themselves -- the very young and the very old," Dr. Paul Pepe,
chairman of emergency medicine at University of Texas Southwestern Medical
Center in Dallas, says in a statement. "Now, young men and women who work in
super-cool office environments during the week and then spend the weekends
playing outdoors are getting into trouble because their bodies haven't had a
chance to adapt to the hot weather."
To avoid treatment in an emergency room, Pepe advises:
-- Wear lightweight, loose-fitting and light-colored clothing.
-- Try to exercise early in the morning or later in the evening.
-- Stay in a well-ventilated area, even if you're working indoors.
-- Drink water, too much sugar and caffeine is not good, especially if outdoors.
-- Avoid alcohol. A cool beer or mixed drink might sound good but it only
dehydrates you more.
-- Use a buddy system so you can keep an eye on each other.
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Copyright 2009 by United Press International