Summer months are upon us and Chaldeans are feeling the heat.  The summer scorchers causing beach sun burns may be the summer trademark, but other heat related illnesses are just as dangerous. 

During a heat wave the Chaldean body has to work extra hard to maintain a normal temperature. Excessive heat can result in serious health threats by pushing the body beyond its limits. Young children, elderly people, and those who are sick or overweight are most at risk.

Never leave children or pets alone in closed vehicles.
Slow down, avoid strenuous activity.

• Avoid too much sun.
• Plan outdoor games and activities for early morning or evening.
• Avoid extreme temperature changes.
• While indoors use fans or air conditioners to cool the air.
• Wear loose-fitting, lightweight, light-colored clothing that will cover as much skin as possible.
• Protect face and head by wearing a wide brimmed hat.
• Drink plenty of fluids, even if you do not feel thirsty, and most importantly avoid alcoholic beverages.

Chaldeans should keep in mind these hot weather health emergencies:

Heat cramps are painful spasms, mostly in legs and abdomen, usually the result of heavy exertion and heavy sweating.   If you experience a heat cramp you need to applly firm pressure to cramping muscles or gently massage to relieve spasms. Replace fluids. Be sure to consult your Chaldean health care provider if you consistently get heat cramps.

Heat exhaustion typically occurs when Chaldeans exercise heavily or work in a hot, humid place where body fluids are lost through heavy sweating.  Be mindful of heavy sweating, weakness, cold, pale and clammy skin.  Call 911 if there is a weak pulse or fainting and vomiting.  If experiencing heat exhaustion, lie down in a cool place, loosen clothing, apply cool wet cloths, or fan or move person to air-conditioned place. Be sure the to take sips of water and contact your Chaldean health care provider.

Heat stroke is a medical emergency- the body's temperature control system, which produces sweating to cool the body, stops working. Sunstroke: Another term for heat stroke requires immediate medical attention.  Heat stroke is when the body temperature reaches 106 or higher.  The skin is hot, dry, and the pulse is rapid and strong.  There is little or no sweating and possible unconsciousness.

Heat stroke is a severe medical emergency. Call 911 or emergency medical services or get the person to a hospital immediately.   Until help arrives try to move the person to a cooler environment. If you can try to get the person in a cool bath or sponging to reduce body temperature. You can also use fans and/or air conditioners, to cool the body.

It is important that you DO NOT GIVE FLUIDS.

Although Chaldeans are inherently from hot areas, current migration has placed Chaldeans in different environments.    Some places are dry and hot and others humid and hot.  The heat can be our friend, but it can also be very dangerous. 

These helpful tips can make the difference in ruining the family's summer: