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How to Beat the Summer Heat While Living With Respiratory Issues - Physicians Urgent Care

Summer can be the best time of the year – it usually means time off work, warm weather and fun vacations! But it can also be a dangerous time if you have to deal with respiratory issues. Problems like asthma, COPD or other breathing ailments can be exacerbated by the summer heat and humidity. Here are some tips for helping you deal with these problems during the summer.

Avoid Heat Exhaustion

The heat can be a danger for anyone, but if you have respiratory problems you need to take extra caution to avoid heat exhaustion. If you start to feel weak, have a headache or feel nauseous, make sure to tell someone. You should try to get to a cool place and let yourself rest without any physical exertion.

Avoid High Altitudes

Higher altitudes mean thinner air, which makes it hard for people with respiratory issues to get the oxygen they need. If you’re planning a summer vacation, try to avoid places with high altitudes. If you do have a mile-high destination in your plans, be sure to take extra precautions to protect yourself from getting short of breath.

Drink Lots of Water

Sip water throughout the day, not just when you feel thirsty. Thirst occurs after you’re already dehydrated and if you have a respiratory issue you need more water than others to stay hydrated. Dehydration can lead to extra mucus in your lungs, which can make breathing even harder.

Clean Your Air Conditioner

Indoor air quality is also a factor during the summer months when your air conditioner is turned on full blast. Make sure you clean the filter on your air conditioner regularly – at least twice a year. This will remove bacteria, mold and dust so that you can improve the quality of inside air and reduce the instance of breathing problems.

Stay on Top of Your Meds

If you take medication for respiratory issues, make sure you are never without it in the summer. It’s more important than ever to take your medications regularly in order to avoid further issues. If you have an inhaler, be sure to keep it on you at all times and make sure to have a spare in case it’s running low.

If you are suffering from respiratory issues, don’t hesitate to call or visit Physician’s Urgent Care. We can help you with any medical problems or emergencies.