DOHand Drink plenty of water to beat the summer heat, learn first aid for heatstroke

MANILA-- As temperatures rise to feverish levels, the Department of Health (DOH) has called on the public to hydrate themselves regularly to guard against heatstroke and dehydration. Dahil mainit ang panahon, mas maraming tubig ang kailangan natin. (Due to the scorching heat, we need to drink plenty of water.) We need to drink eight to 12 glasses a day, said Health Secretary Dr. Paulyn Ubial.Ubial suggested water intake at 15-minute intervals to consume one glass per hour. This is for everyone, especially those whose work exposes them to extreme heat, she pointed out, adding that even if one does not feel thirsty, he/she needs to drink water to replace fluid lost from sweating.The health chief further advised against sun exposure from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.If this cannot be prevented, wear light clothing and a hat, use an umbrella, and walk along shady paths, she said.Ubial also suggested that strenuous activities, such as zumba, be scheduled during the cooler hours.Meanwhile, Ubial emphasized the importance of learning first aid for heatstroke.Place the person on a shady spot and make him/her sip some cold water if he/she is conscious, she said.If the person is unconscious, loosen tight clothing and remove unnecessary clothing items, such as belts and neckties, and apply a wet towel or spray water on the body, she said. In case you cannot revive the individual in 10 to 15 minutes, start CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation) or call somebody to bring the person to the nearest hospital, Ubial said. (PNA)LSJ