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(Medical-NewsWire.com, July 17, 2012 ) Dothan, AL - People who have chronic medical conditions can be affected by heat more quickly than those who are well. Ill people, especially the elderly, can lose the ability to sense heat as readily and may wait until it is too late to take over-heating precautions. Many people who die during heat waves are elderly or have chronic medical conditions.
One of the first lines of defense in any elevated temperature situation is to increase the amount of water a person drinks. Instead of waiting until they are thirsty they should drink non-caffeinated beverages often. Caffeinated drinks such as tea, some carbonated drinks and coffee can act as a diuretic, making the kidneys pull water out of the body and ultimately may cause dehydration. As an extra bonus, fluids containing electrolyte solutions such as Powerade or Gatorade may be better than plain water, especially if the person is sweating a lot.
Another thing that may be done to mitigate the chances of death or increased sickness during times of elevated temperature is to reduce cooking. Eating cold foods instead of using the oven or stove top can keep from heating a house even further. If meal preparation must be done, plan cooking times during the later evenings so the meals are ready for the next day and only need warmed in a microwave.
Cool showers or baths two or more times a day, wearing loose-fitting clothing and staying in an area with a breeze can also help a person make it through the hot days. Community centers often open their doors to allow people to stay in air conditioned buildings during heat waves. One might also consider other places that are normally open to the public such as the library.
In addition, developing a network of people to check up on the elderly or ill on a regular basis has been proven to save lives. Sometimes another person will notice an increase in sickness even before the person themselves are aware, allowing medical help to be summoned quickly. Elderly and ill people need to be checked on multiple times during the day when temperatures are up.
Taking these steps should make hot days safer for the chronically ill and elderly.
About The Cochran Firm
Recognized as one of the nation’s premier law firms, The Cochran Firm handles cases on behalf of clients seeking a Personal Injury, Criminal Defense, Medical Malpractice or Social Security Disability lawyer. The Firm can be reached at 1-800-THE-FIRM (1-800-843-3476) or visit their website at http://www.CochranNation.com. “We go to work for you…when you can’t.”
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Cochran Firm
Ben Irwin, Esq.
163 West Main Street
Dothan, Alabama 3301
1-800-THE-FIRM (1-800-843-3476)
http://www.cochrannation.com
Cochran Firm
Ben Irwin
800-843-3476
detroit@disabilitylawyerindetroit.com
Source: EmailWire.Com 
Source: EmailWire.com
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