Heat Wave & Health Dangers

Over 40 states are warning their residents of the dangers of heat related illness as the mercury rises setting new records. While not as dramatic as storm related health concerns heat waves cause more illness and death than any other weather event. For weight loss surgery patients it is critical to stay hydrated at all times. Take a look at the National Weather Service heat index below and also the information from the American Red Cross. Empower with knowledge and avoid heat related health complications!

The American Red Cross Reports: "In recent years, excessive heat has caused more deaths than all other weather events, including floods. A heat wave is a prolonged period of excessive heat, often combined with excessive humidity. Generally temperatures are 10 degrees or more above the average high temperature for the region during summer months, last for a long period of time and occur with high humidity as well."

Know the DifferenceExcessive Heat Watch—Conditions are favorable for an excessive heat event to meet or exceed local Excessive Heat Warning criteria in the next 24 to 72 hours.

Excessive Heat Warning—Heat Index values are forecast to meet or exceed locally defined warning criteria for at least 2 days (daytime highs=105-110° Fahrenheit).

Heat Advisory—Heat Index values are forecast to meet locally defined advisory criteria for 1 to 2 days (daytime highs=100-105° Fahrenheit).

You can download the "Be Red Cross Ready" free Heat Wave Safety Checklist Here:
Heat Wave Safety Checklist This free .pdf file has great information to help prepare for a heat wave, what to do while experiencing a heat wave and how to recognize and care for heat wave related emergencies.

Weight loss surgery patients should always follow Rule #2 - Drink lots of water. And this is never more important than during a heat wave. Dehydration can, among other things, lead to fits of dumping syndrome:

Danger! Warm Summer Weather May Lead to Dehydration For Weight Loss Surgery Patients
Following bariatric surgery for weight loss patients are instructed in the Four Rules of weight loss surgery; the second of which is drink lots of water. This rule is of particular importance during the warm summer months when perspiration and elimination cause greater water losses and the potential for dehydration increases. To avoid dehydration and illness caused by insufficient water balance weight loss surgery patients can take several measures to insure adequate water intake. Read Full Article

 Be safe this summer by being informed! You are in your new life to enjoy LIVING! Don't let a little heat wave bring you down!