As the summer heats up Mercy Health gives advice to stay safe and keep cool

As the Valley is experiencing one of the first major heatwaves of the year, Mercy Health urges residents to be careful and learn how to manage dehydration and other digestive problems. 

Dehydration, especially from excessive sweating, can lead to fatigue, irritability, headaches, muscle cramps, dizziness and more.

"Dehydration is a significant risk in the heat and can cause all kinds of discomfort, as well as serious conditions if not addressed," says Dr. Carl Manzo, Mercy Health gastroenterologist. 

Dr. Manzo also warns that intense heat can worsen symptoms of existing digestive conditions such as acid reflux or IBS.

Smaller, lighter meals including fruits and vegetables while avoiding rich or spicy foods can help your body endure high temperatures more easily.

And of course drinking enough water is essential to keeping your system running when the sun is baring down. 

It's also important to store food properly when it's warm.

All kinds of food will spoil faster which can lead to illness such as diarrhea, nausea and stomach cramps.

"If you're hosting or attending outdoor gatherings... keep cold foods chilled, avoid leaving perishables out for extended periods, and refrigerate leftovers promptly," says Dr. Manzo.