Eric Paul Justin, MD, MPH, MBA | 5 June 2020
Greetings to you, your family and your friends. As Summer approaches, we are experiencing much warmer weather conditions. Yesterday’s heat index for the Kansas City Area was well over 90! Today’s heat index is predicted to be the same. What to do?
Remember to drink plenty of water. Keep in mind sweetened drinks don’t quench thirst or serve your body’s needs the way water does. A rule of thumb is eight glasses of water per day although paying attention to one’s own sensation of ‘thirst’ is more important than a count.
If you plan to go outside consider ‘tanking up’ with a drink of water before you start. Or, take a water bottle with you. Please keep in mind if your physician has restricted daily water intake for you. If you have any question about that it is best to consult your physician.
Consider rescheduling your outdoor activities. Take walks and other forms of outdoor exercise, yard work and gardening earlier or later in the day. Also as we get more sunshine each day, a very good thing, remember to guard against sunburn. Protective clothing or sunscreen is in order.
Hopefully you have had a good experience with the ‘opening up’ taking place. COVID-19 remains a strong concern for all of us. Social distancing, wearing a mask, washing hands, etc. have not changed. Please refer to prior pieces I have written for more detail (on this website).
Adding to challenges from the COVID-19 pandemic are the rather abrupt and widespread changes of social unrest, protest, and unfortunately violence in many of our cities. It is important to stay informed about this dramatic change just as it is important to be aware of information about COVID-19. However, please don’t let it dominate your days. Limit the time you spend on social media as well as TV watching.
Do talk with family and friends. Frequently. There have been few times in my experience when staying in touch with our loved ones has been this important. Reach out and call someone you haven’t talked to recently. Catch up with others and find out how they are coping with all the changes we are all going through.
Blessings and good health to you and yours!
