Dignity Health | hello Healthy | Spring 2019

4 DignityHealth.org/Bakersfield | Summer 2019 Here’s to a safe, healthy summer There’s a lot to love about summer. The days are longer, and school’s out. So there’s more time for family fun. But summer is also when some injuries and illnesses are more common. Fortunately, they’re largely preventable—if you’re aware and prepared, says Nadeem Goraya, MD, a family medicine specialist at Dignity Health Medical Group – Bakersfield. Keep cool Hot weather can overwhelm the body’s ability to cool itself through sweating. The result can be illnesses such as heat exhaustion or even heatstroke, a life-threatening emergency. Many things can cause heat illness. “But one factor is inadequate hydration,” Dr. Goraya says. If you’re going to be out in hot weather, drink up to twice as many fluids as you normally would, he suggests. A 50-50 solution of water and sports drink (such as Gatorade) can help replenish water and electrolytes. Avoid caffeinated drinks, which can make you lose fluids. “Also, take a break and cool down when you need to,” Dr. Goraya adds. And remember: Never leave a child alone in a car, he emphasizes. The car’s interior temperature can quickly reach deadly levels. NADEEM GORAYA, MD, is a family medicine physician with Dignity Health Medical Group – Bakersfield. To learn more, please visit dhmf.org/bakersfield or call 661.654.0200 .