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07/21/2012 05:00 AM

Healthy Living: Keeping cool in high temperatures

Temperatures well over 90 degrees combined with high humidity can cause dehydration, heat stroke, and in rare cases death. Casey Bortnick reports.

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In record heat, even a game can be downright dangerous if you're not careful. Temperatures well over 90 degrees combined with high humidity can cause dehydration, heat stroke, and in rare cases death.

"Prevention is key. Public awareness is key," said Dr. Jamie Kerr, Excellus BlueCross BlueShield.

In high heat doctors, say it's best to limit your time outdoors, especially when the sun's rays are most intense between 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. For those who have to be outside...

"You really have to pace yourself, avoid strenuous exercise, drink plenty of fluids, be careful," said Dr. Kerr.
Older people are more vulnerable in these conditions because they're often on medications that dry their bodies out. Doctors say it's best to drink water. Caffeinated drinks and alcohol can actually make the problem worse.

“You have a couple of beers and you may think you're staying well hydrated because you had a couple of drinks, but alcohol actually dehydrates you because it acts as a diuretic, so you may be more dehydrated when you think you're doing better,” said Dr. Bryan Gargano, emergency physician.

Those without air conditioning, are urged to find somewhere cool.