Medical advice on beating the summer heat

Summer days are here with the hottest week of 2021 kicking off.
Dr. Anthony Russo with Steward Health told 21 News to keep yourself safe during this weather, stay in the AC as much as you can.
If you can't get to the AC, bring some frozen towels as a cool down. Make sure to drink a lot of water, even before you feel thirsty. Russo said people with underlying health conditions such as asthma should be cautious in the heat.
"People with lung disorders like COPD and Emphysema are seeing a lot more flareups and even congested heart failure patients," Russo said. Russo added those with seasonal allergies could also struggle with high temperatures, especially if it is humid.
Dr. Russo said to be more cautious in humid temperatures like this week throughout the Mahoning Valley. He said you're body is actually tricked into thinking it's not as hot outside as it actually is.
"Humidity as a whole makes us feel like our bodies work a little bit harder and we don't want to hydrate as much as we should," Russo said. "But, in fact, we should be probably doing it more so when there's high humidity."
The CDC advises to schedule outdoor activities according to the weather, wear light weight and loose clothing and to never leave children or animals in the car.
"We have a 15 minute break at the top of the hour, from 45 to the top of the hour," explained Andrew Schach, Assistant Manager with Firestone Pool. "So, they can rest their bodies and hydrate themselves because the pool really puts a lot of wear on them. This break also gives them time to put on sunscreen so they don't get sun poisoning or skin cancer."
Schach said to make sure kids stay safe while swimming, it's essential they wear floaties if they aren't strong swimmers and to know not to go in deep waters.
Visit the CDC's website for more information on staying safe in the heat.