Beat the Summer heat with tips from Prisma Health

SOURCE: DHEC PRESS RELEASE

COLUMBIA, S.C. (WOLO)– Summer officially arrives on Thursday, and with the season comes high temperatures.

But Prisma Health is giving some tips on how to beat the heat this Summer in South Carolina.

According to Prisma Health, extreme heat can cause everything from heat exhaustion to something more dangerous like a heat stroke, but even a “normal” S.C. summer day brings with it an increase in unintentional injuries and accidents due to higher participation in outdoor activities like swimming, sports and yard work.

Preparation and knowing what common summer injuries to be aware of can make all the difference in being able to safely enjoy the season: 

• Heat stress is the leading cause of weather-related deaths and can exacerbate underlying illnesses including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, mental health and asthma. It can also increase the risk of accidents.

Prisma says if exertion in the heat makes your heart pound and leaves for gasping for breath, stop all activity and get into a cool area or into shade, especially if you become lightheaded, confused or faint.

People who are just enjoying a sunny day with family is also urged to take extra care of themselves during the Summer heat.

Take precautions to guard against sunburns, tick bites and mosquito bites, all of which may only seem inconvenient but can pose significant health risks for some people.