Summer is Upon Us. Tips to Stay Cool!

Staying cool when temperatures get hot isn't just about comfort. Dangerously high temperatures can result in heat-related illnesses and the risk increases significantly as temperatures rise and outdoor activities become more popular.

Heat-related illnesses can be classified as heat syncope (fainting), heat exhaustion, heat cramps, and classic and exertion heat stroke. Treatment is directed at restoring normal body defense mechanisms.

"Make sure to stay hydrated and wear sunscreen at all times. Also, it is very important to pay attention to your body,” said Michael Moskowitz, DO, of Mercy Medical Center and Bellmore Family Practice. “Think carefully before starting new high-impact or stressful activities in the extreme heat.”

Wear loose fitting clothes in light colors and exercise during the morning hours when ambient temperatures are lowest.

Below are tips to help you stay safe if a heat-related condition occurs:

Heat Cramps
Symptoms: Painful spasms usually in leg and abdominal muscles. Heavy sweating.
First Aid: firm pressure on cramping muscles or gently massage to relieve spasm. Sip water. If nausea occurs, discontinue.

Heat Exhaustion
Symptoms: Heavy sweating, weakness, skin cold, pale and clammy.  Weak pulse. Normal temperature possible.
First Aid: Lie down in a cool place. Loosen clothing. Apply cool, wet cloths. Fan or move to an
air-conditioned place. Sip water. If nausea occurs, discontinue. If fainting or vomiting occur, call 911 or get to a hospital immediately.

Heat Stroke
Symptoms: High body temperature (106+). Hot, dry skin. Rapid, strong pulse. Possible unconsciousness. Person will most likely not sweat.
First Aid: heat stroke is a severe medical emergency. Call 911 or get to a hospital immediately. Move to a cooler environment. Try a cool bath or sponging to reduce body temperature. Use extreme caution. Remove clothing. Use fans and/or air conditioners. DO NOT DRINK FLUIDS.

View more tips here from the CDC: http://emergency.cdc.gov/disasters/extremeheat/heattips.asp




To find a CHS physician near you, visit www.chsli.org

Melanoma and Sun Safety

Summer weather is coming, but it’s important to take precautions against skin cancer all year round. Did you know skin cancer is the most prevalent form of cancer in the U.S. according to the American Cancer Society? Melanoma accounts for only 2% of all skin cancer, cases yet is responsible for the majority of skin cancer-related deaths. This dangerous cancer occurs in pigment-containing cells in the skin, eyes and other organs.

To protect you and your family and yourself from potentially harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays, which can lead to melanoma and other skin cancers:

• Be cautious outdoors between 10:00 am and 4:00 pm, when the sun’s rays are strongest.
• Check the UV index and remember that sand and water reflect sunlight.
• Be sure to apply water-resistant sunscreen with the appropriate sun protection factor (SPF) when at the beach, lake or pool.
• Wear sunglasses, hats and long sleeves, pants or skirts when necessary. Extra care must be taken to shield infants and young children from harmful rays.

“When identified early, melanoma and other skin cancers are treatable. However, preventive measures are always the best approach,” commented Kenneth Gold, MD, co-chair of CHS’s oncology service line and chief of hematology/oncology at Good Samaritan Hospital in West Islip, which just earned its fourth consecutive Outstanding Achievement Award from the American College of Surgeons Commission on Cancer. “Avoid tanning salons and severe sunburn, both of which have been associated with a rising incidence of melanoma. Also, red headed individuals need to be particularly vigilant, as their melanoma risk is increased compared to the general population.”

You can test your sun safety IQ by taking the quiz at here.

To find a physician near you, visit www.chsli.org