TIPS FOR PREVENTING HEAT-RELATED ILLNESS
June 17, 2009 Provided by NCEH's Health Studies Branch

Drink more fluids, regardless of your activity level. Don't wait until you're thirsty to drink. Warning: If your doctor generally limits the amount of fluid you drink or has you on water pills, ask him how much you should drink while the weather is hot.

Don't drink liquids that contain alcohol or large amounts of sugar - these actually cause you to lose more body fluid. Also, avoid very cold drinks, because they can cause stomach cramps. Continue

UNDERSTANDING YOUR BLOOD PRESSURE
June 17, 2009 by Donna Taphorn, RN

Blood pressure is the force of blood against the walls of your arteries. It moves blood from your heart to all parts of your body. This pressure changes from day to day according to your fitness level, body weight, time of day, medication, or stress level.

In some people, the smaller arteries become narrow, increasing the resistance for blood flow. The heart then begins working harder and faster. When this happens, blood pressure goes up. If it goes too high and stays that way, it is called high blood pressure. Continue