FitSugar

Heat Exhaustion - Know the Symptoms

FitSugar — Wed, 06 Jun 2007 14:30:00 -0700

If you live in a warm climate, or a place where the summer gets pretty hot and humid, you could be at risk for heat exhaustion if you're not careful. Heat exhaustion can happen after exposure to high temps, which can make you sweat profusely and cause your body to overheat. You're at risk if you are working out in the sun, or in a poorly ventilated hot and humid room.

Here are the symptoms of heat exhaustion:

cold, clammy skin
dilated pupils
excessive sweating
dizziness, blurred vision, headache, or fainting
muscle cramps
weakness or fatigue
nausea or vomiting
signs of shock: rapid pulse, shallow breathing, unconsciousness

What should you do if you or someone you know is suffering from heat exhaustion? To find out read more

Get out of the sun and heat immediately.
Drink lots of water.
Remove excess clothing and loosen anything that is too tight around the neck or waist.
Take a cool shower or bath, or find some air-conditioning.
Lie on your back with your feet elevated.
If the person you are with becomes unconscious, seek medical attention ASAP!

Fit's Tips: To prevent heat exhaustion in the first place, avoid staying outside in extreme temperatures for long periods of time. If you find yourself in the heat, drink tons of cool water and go swimming to keep your body temperature from getting too high. If you love exercising outside in the summer, try working out early in the morning or later in the evening when the air is cooler.

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Reasons to Try Mountain Biking

FitSugar — Thu, 15 Oct 2009 03:47:34 -0700

Road biking was my first taste of exercising on wheels. I loved the smooth terrain, how fast I could speed along, and how much distance I could cover, which made for great sightseeing. I never gave much thought to trying mountain biking, until my hubby persuaded me to go with him. I tell you, it's a completely different feeling riding on a woodsy trail than it is riding on the road. Here are some reasons you should give it a try.

It's the perfect time of year - the air is chilly so you won't overheat, there are no bugs, the ground is less muddy, and the foliage is gorgeous. It's a great way to celebrate Fall.
It's a major calorie burner. An hour of mountain biking burns over 500 calories.
You can forget about doing endless squats and lunges because mountain biking will effectively tone your thighs and booty. Since you have to pedal hard up steep hills, you really feel the burn in your lower body.
Once you purchase a mountain bike, cycling shoes, and a helmet, the trails are usually free, so it's a great way to stay fit during a time when we're all pinching pennies. Visit a bike shop and purchase an old model that stores are trying to get rid of, or check out Craigslist if you're on a budget.

To see why else you should start mountain biking read more.

It's a great alternative for people who say that running hurts their knees or back.
Since you're biking through narrow trails, over roots and rocks, dodging tree limbs and holes, you really tune your sense of balance. It also requires more awareness and quick thinking, so boredom just isn't an issue.
It's a great form of exercise you can do with a friend or whole group. Not only is there safety in numbers, but your pals can suggest new places to ride.
It's hardcore. I feel so tough after a ride in the woods because mountain biking is so challenging. I come home with scratches from branches, bruises from falling (since I'm a beginner), and mud on my legs. Aside from strengthening my body, my inner self feels stronger.

Tell me, have you ever tried mountain biking?

K9 Time: Exercising With Your Pooch

FitSugar — Fri, 03 Apr 2009 08:00:00 -0700

I love running with my dog, Bonnie, because it's a way for us to both get some exercise and fresh air, and I know I appreciate the company. It makes me feel a little safer when running alone, and it also makes the time go by faster. Before you lace up your running shoes and leash up your dog too, consider these pet exercise tips.

It's not good for puppies' developing muscles and bones to run consistently for long periods of time. Wait until your dog is at least one year old or more. If she is older or overweight, running may be too hard on her joints, so stick to walking.
Consider your dog's breed. If she is a Pug or other dog with a short nose, walking might be better than running to limit breathing difficulties. If your dog is a large breed such as a Standard Poodle, running long distances may be hard on her joints, so opt for short runs.
Build up your dog's endurance gradually. Start off with short intervals of alternating between walking and running. Even though your dog may want to keep going, you don't want to overexert her too quickly and risk an injury.

To see the other tips, read more.

Don't get frustrated if your dog has a hard time staying next to you, pulls on the leash, or stops constantly to smell things. Practice makes perfect, so be patient. It may take some time for her to get used to being on a short leash and running beside you at your pace.
Asphalt and concrete can be too hot for furry feet, and rocks and gravel may cause cuts. Monitor your dog’s pads for cracking and wear.
Dogs overheat easily, so avoid exercising in hot weather. Make sure to carry water with you or exercise near water so your pup can hydrate and cool off.
Dogs like routines, so if you establish a regular exercise time, you’ll never have to self-motivate. Your dog will beg you to get up and get going.

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You Asked: Why the Red Face When Running?

FitSugar — Thu, 19 Mar 2009 11:00:00 -0700

Hey FitSugar,
Per my New Year's resolution, I've started and managed to keep running in 2009. I used to run cross country and track in high school, about 10 years ago, but now I've noticed one big change - my face gets beet red when I run. It looks like a red mask. The redness stays just on my face and doesn't go down my neck or up into my scalp. Do you have any idea what is going on? Is there something I can do to prevent this or is it no big deal? Thanks in advance for your advice and help!
- Red Faced Runner

Having a pink flush to your face is a tell-tale sign that you've been working out, but it sounds like your skin flushes to a hue beyond pink. To see what's going on with your skin, read more.

When you work out, your body produces heat. One way that your body ensures it doesn't overheat is by sweating, of course. But your body also increases blood circulation to the skin's surfaces, so the heat can be radiated off - smart body. Warm, oxygenated blood rushes to your face, turning it that bright red color. It's receiving lots of healthy blood, bringing nutrients to your skin and carrying away toxins. In medical speak, this phenomenon is known as vasodilation. Drinking an adequate amount of water before and during exercise may help reduce the redness by ensuring you're hydrated enough to sweat to properly cool yourself down.

Your face turning red is really no big deal unless you are also experiencing dizziness, fatigue, or nausea, which indicate that you may be in danger of becoming overheated. If that's the case, stop exercising immediately and get out of the sun if you are running outside. Be sure to drink plenty of cool water, too.

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Chill Out: Anger Is Bad For the Heart

FitSugar — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 11:00:00 -0800

National Heart Health Month may be drawing to a close, but keeping your ticker healthy is daily affair. In fact, matters of the heart are affected by what goes on in your head; chronic negative emotions, like anger and stress, might damage the heart.

In a recent Yale University study, anger appeared to interfere with the electrical signals of heart patients. When the electrical signals of the heart become erratic, the heart can abruptly stop beating, leading to cardiac arrest. Emotional stress can tax the heart in the same fashion as physical stress, and in already vulnerable populations, this can lead to trouble. While the direct affects of anger on the heart in populations with healthy hearts has yet to be studied, this test helps us all understand the emotional connection between our emotional life and the health of our heart. If you tend to run a little hot-headed, now might be the time to learn how to cool off before you overheat your heart.

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Gear Review: Revenant Running Shoe by Under Armour

FitSugar — Wed, 11 Feb 2009 10:00:00 -0800

Known for its sturdy workout wear, Under Armour is adding shoes to its repertoire. I just took the stability sneaker, UA Revenant ($120), out for a couple of test runs, and I mean that literally. After wearing them around the house for some light cleaning, I wore them for a long jog on the road. They felt great. Supportive and well cushioned, the Revenant is designed to prevent overpronation, rolling too far to the inside of the foot, something I am prone to doing. I felt as if I could feel the shoes steering me toward the outside of the foot and I appreciated the help.

I also tested them on the treadmill and again they felt great. They fit really well, felt cushioned in all the right places, and my feet didn't overheat as they sometimes can when running indoors. Never having worn sneakers with pink on them, I will admit I like the feminine hot pink accents. The mesh fabric is gray, or as Under Armour refers to it, "smoked pearl," so the shoes are not glaring white.

You can purchase these running shoes directly from Under Armour. They run true to size. Or if you want to try them on, which I recommend when shopping for a new running shoe, check out the store locator.

Fit Gift Guide: Skiers and Riders

FitSugar — Wed, 03 Dec 2008 13:00:00 -0800

The snow's a fallin' in parts of the world, and that means skiers and riders are gearing up for some adventurous time in the snow. If there's a gal in your life who's big into hitting the mountain, here are some gift ideas that are sure to keep her warm and protected.

Salomon Ladies Temptress Jacket: The best part about this coat is that it has tons of zippered pockets to hold your wallet, keys, phone, tissues, and snacks. It's lightly insulated so once you start cruising, you won't overheat. There's also a goggle wipe and a holder for your ski pass. Since this is last year's model, it's cheaper, so you'll save some dough.
Smith Women's Anthem Goggles: Goggles are a must to protect your eyes from snow, ice, rain, tree branches, and the sun. These from Smith are made for a woman's facial features, and they're helmet compatible.
Burton Headphone Beanie: Whether you're zooming down the mountain on skis or a board, some people can't live without their tunes. This hat from Burton has speakers built in. Just plug the wire into your iPod and you're good to go.

Source

Antihistamine and decongestant with drying agent (By mouth)

admin — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 20:11:00 -0700

Overview

Introduction
Brand Name(s)
When This Medicine Should Not Be Used
How to Use This Medicine
How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine
Drugs and Foods to Avoid
Warnings While Using This Medicine
Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine

HEALTH GUIDE REFERENCE FROM A.D.A.M

Introduction

Relieves symptoms of the common cold, rhinitis (nose irritation), sinus infections, and upper respiratory tract infections.

Brand Name(s)

Dallergy, Hista-Vent DA, CPM 8/PE 20/MSC 1.25, Duradryl, Dehistine, Durahist PE, Rescon-MX, Chlor-Mes D, Drihist SR, Ralix, Phenylephrine CM, Extendryl SR, Hista-Vent PSE, Durahist D, PCM

There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used

You should not take this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to atropine, chlorpheniramine, hyoscyamine, methscopolamine, phenylephrine, pseudoephedrine, scopolamine, or any other anticholinergic, antihistamine, or decongestant medicine. You should not use this medicine if you have glaucoma (increased pressure in your eyes), or if you have acute bronchial asthma. You should not use this medicine if you have severe high blood pressure, or other serious heart problems. You should not use this medicine if you have urinary retention problems or bladder neck obstruction, or if you have an enlarged prostate gland. You should not use this medicine if you have a stomach or small intestine ulcer, or if you have hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid gland). These medicines should be used with caution, if at all, by pregnant women or children. Do not give any over-the-counter (OTC) cough and cold medicine to a baby or child under 2 years old. Using these medicines in very young children might cause serious or possibly life-threatening side effects.

How to Use This Medicine

Long Acting Tablet, Tablet, Capsule, Long Acting Capsule, Liquid, Chewable Tablet

Your doctor will tell you how much of this medicine to use and how often. Do not use more medicine or use it more often than your doctor tells you to.
You may take this medicine with or without food. Taking the medicine with food or milk may help you avoid stomach upset. Some of these medicines should be taken 30 minutes to 1 hour before meals.
Swallow the extended-release caplet or tablet whole. Do not crush or chew it.
If you have trouble swallowing the tablet or caplet whole, call your doctor or pharmacist for instructions. You may be able to break the medicine in half before taking it.

If a dose is missed:

If you miss a dose or forget to use your medicine, use it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then to use the medicine and skip the missed dose. Do not use extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine

Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light.
Ask your pharmacist, doctor, or health caregiver about the best way to dispose of any outdated medicine or medicine no longer needed.
Keep all medicine away from children and never share your medicine with anyone.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

Make sure your doctor knows if you are also using monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) medicine, such as Eldepryl®, Marplan®, Nardil®, or Parnate®. You should not use this medicine at the same time you are using a MAOI medicine, or within 14 days (2 weeks) of the time you stopped using MAOI medicines. Make sure your doctor knows if you are using a blood thinner, such as warfarin (Coumadin®).
Make sure your doctor knows if you are also using blood pressure medicine, such as atenolol, metoprolol, propranolol, or Toprol®, or if you are also using digoxin (Lanoxin®, Digitek®). Another name for digoxin is digitalis. Make sure your doctor knows if you are also using guanethidine, mecamylamine, methyldopa, reserpine, or veratrum. Make sure your doctor knows if you are using a medicine to treat depression, such as amitriptyline, doxepin, or nortriptyline.
Make sure your doctor knows if you are are also using a phenothiazine medicine, such as prochlorperazine, Compazine®, Mellaril®, Phenergan®, Thorazine®, or Trilafon®. These medicines can be used to treat severe vomiting, psychiatric problems, or other conditions. Tell your doctor if you are using any medicines that make you sleepy. These include sleeping pills, cold and allergy medicine, narcotic pain relievers, and sedatives.
There are many other drugs that can interact with antihistamine, decongestant, and drying medicines. Make sure your doctor knows about all other medicines you are using.
Do not drink alcohol while you are using this medicine.

Warnings While Using This Medicine

Make sure your doctor knows if you are pregnant or breast feeding, or if you have diabetes. Make sure your doctor knows if you have any heart problems or breathing problems, such as asthma. Make sure your doctor knows if you have severe liver problems, kidney problems, or chronic lung disease, or if you have hiatal hernia or esophagitis reflux.
This medicine may make you dizzy or drowsy. Avoid driving, using machines, or doing anything else that could be dangerous if you are not alert.
This medicine may make you more sensitive to heat. Be cautious when exercising or doing activities when the temperature is high to make sure you don't overheat.
Your doctor will need to check your progress at regular visits while you are using this medicine. Be sure to keep all appointments.
Make sure any doctor or dentist who treats you knows that you are using this medicine. This medicine may affect the results of certain medical tests.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing.
Chest pain or tightness.
Fainting.
Fever with a sore throat.
Seeing or hearing things that are not there.
Severe diarrhea.
Very dry mouth, nose, or throat.
Very fast, pounding, or uneven heart beat.

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

Change in how often or how much you urinate, or painful urination.
Feeling unusually tired or weak.
Feeling unusually excited, irritable, moody, nervous, or restless.
Headache.
Nausea, vomiting, mild diarrhea, constipation, loss of appetite, stomach pain or upset.
Ringing or buzzing sound in your ears.
Trouble sleeping.
Unusual bleeding or bruising.
Unusual clumsiness or stumbling.
Vision changes, or blurry vision.

Review Date: 8/4/2008

A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org). URAC's accreditation program is an independent audit to verify that A.D.A.M. follows rigorous standards of quality and accountability. A.D.A.M. is among the first to achieve this important distinction for online health information and services. Learn more about A.D.A.M.'s editorial policy, editorial process and privacy policy. A.D.A.M. is also a founding member of Hi-Ethics and subscribes to the principles of the Health on the Net Foundation (www.hon.ch).

A.D.A.M. Copyright

The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed medical professional should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. © 1997-2009 A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.

adam.com

Source Doc: 45_5402

Sweating - absent

admin — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 19:07:29 -0700

Overview

Definition
Alternative Names
Considerations
Common Causes
Home Care
Call your health care provider if
What to expect at your health care provider's office

Illustrations

Skin layers

HEALTH GUIDE REFERENCE FROM A.D.A.M

Definition

An abnormal lack of sweat in response to heat may be harmful, because sweating allows heat to be released from the body. The medical term for absent sweating is anhidrosis.

Alternative Names

Decreased sweating; Anhidrosis

Considerations

Anhidrosis sometimes goes unrecognized until a substantial amount of heat or exertion fails to cause sweating.

Overall lack of sweating can be life threatening because the body will overheat. If the lack of sweating happens in a small area only, it is usually not as dangerous.

Common Causes

Neurologic disorders such as Guillain-Barre syndrome
Skin diseases that block sweat glands
Congenital disorders including as ectodermal dysplasia
Some drugs
Trauma to sweat glands
Burns
Dehydration

Home Care

If there is a danger of overheating, take a cool shower or sit in a cool bathtub and drink plenty of fluids. Remain in a cool environment. Move slowly during hot weather. Avoid heavy exercise and hot foods.

Call your health care provider if

Call your health care provider if you have a general lack of sweating or an abnormal lack of sweating when exposed to heat or strenuous exercise.

What to expect at your health care provider's office

The doctor will perform a physical exam. In emergencies, the health care team will perform rapid cooling measures and give you fluids to stabilize you.

Your doctor may ask you questions about your symptoms and medical history. You may be given drugs to cause sweating.

You may be asked to wrap yourself in an electric blanket or sit in a sweatbox while the health care team watches your body's reaction.

A skin biopsy may be done.

Review Date: 4/16/2007

Reviewed By: Michael S. Lehrer, M.D., Department of Dermatology, University of Pennsylvania Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

A.D.A.M. Copyright

adam.com

Source Doc: 1_003219

Dry skin and cold weather itch

admin — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 18:50:54 -0700

HEALTH GUIDE REFERENCE FROM A.D.A.M

Alternative Names

Cold weather and itchy skin

Information

Here are some recommendations for dealing with dry skin:

Take fewer and shorter baths. When you bathe, avoid hot water.
Moisturize your skin immediately after bathing in order to prevent the skin from drying.
Avoid overdrying wet skin. Try patting your skin dry.
Avoid excessive use of soap. Try a soapless cleanser.
Don't overheat your house, and use a humidifier if you live in a dry climate.

Review Date: 10/23/2006

Reviewed By: Kevin Berman, MD, PhD, Associate, Atlanta Center for Dermatologic Disease, Atlanta, GA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

A.D.A.M. Copyright

adam.com

Source Doc: 1_002038