Have a Cool Summer

Here is Summer in all its glory with the mighty sun and rising temperature affecting the lives of all of us. Though most people look forward to summer for enjoying the air, sunshine and warm weather, but little do they realize that this season also brings with it a range of summer ailments and allergies.

For those who have still not encountered such complaints let me name a few… some of the complaints we associate with Summer season are:

• Skin cancer: Exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiations is the main cause of skin cancer. These UV rays can also cause sunburn, tanning, premature skin aging and a decrease in immune system response. People who spent lots of time in the sun or have fair skin/hair or are over 50 years of age, are more at risk of getting skin cancer.
• Heat stroke: It is by far the most serious and common summer hazard; often known as Sun stroke or hyperpyrexia it is manifested by extremely high body temperatures (generally greater than 104 degree F), and short and rapid breathing, fainting, dry skin etc. Heat stroke might lead to serious complications and the victim will die if not treated in time
• Cataract: Overexposure to ultraviolet light can cause cataracts, retinal damage and other eye problems. Eye infections like - styes, bacterial and viral conjunctivitis are also seen with increased frequency in this season
• Sun Headaches: Bright sunshine and the heat can trigger the throbbing headache. In a severe case it may also result in dizziness, nausea, muscle fatigue and vomiting. To avoid such cases remain hydrated and if symptoms occur, always take an over the counter medicine to be on a safer side.
• Epistaxis: Frequency of hemorrhage from nose commonly found in young children also increases in summer season. The flow of blood normally stops when the blood clots, which may be encouraged by direct pressure applied by pinching the soft fleshy part of the nose. Pressure should be firm and be applied for at least 10 minutes.
• Dehydration: Dehydration can happen quickly in the summer heat due to excessive sweating, especially when in physically active individuals. To prevent dehydration, drink additional water in hot or humid weather.
• Mosquito-borne diseases: Summer is also a month of insects like mosquitoes, bees and ants. Their bites - apart from being itchy and annoying - can be serious if they bring diseases such as malaria, dengue, chikungunya etc. All preventive measures should be used to avoid these insect bites.

Though these conditions can sometimes prove extremely annoying but the silver lining is that all of these are avoidable with just a little care. Some measures which if adopted can help us deal better with the Summer complaints are:

Adequate water consumption: Drinking plenty of water keeps body hydrated in summers and helps prevent dehydration. Don't wait to drink until you are thirsty, at the time of thirst, your body already indicates that it ran out of water.

Summer Diet: Fruits such as water melons, cucumber and coconut water can help to prevent dehydration during summer. Take light, less fatty and nutritious food; avoid heavy and spicy food

Summer Skin Care: Keep your skin hydrated and moisturized; use sunscreens of good quality. Avoid too much Sun exposure.

Summer Walk: Try not to go out into the sun during mid noon. If it is inevitable, don't forget your umbrella and UV filter sunglasses. Stay Cool. Wear light, loose-fitting clothing to help you stay cooler.

Summer nap: Have a short rest or nap in the afternoons. This will not only refresh you but also prevent your undue exertions in heat of sun.

Every summer thousands of people die due to dehydration and heat strokes though the modes to avoid them are so manageable. I am sure with these sure and easy methods you can help yourself cope better with the torments of summer season.

With these thoughts I present to you the June Issue of Homeopathic Horizon on MIDSUMMER HASSLES. In this issue you will find articles on all those subjects which one should be reminded of during the Summer Season in order to remain Healthy. Wishing you all a Cool Summer.

Happy Reading