<div style="text-align: justify; "><b><span style="font-size: 1rem;">A brutal heat wave sweeping across Bangladesh. could put millions of Bangladeshi at greater risk of heal-related illnesses. Here's what you can do to stay cool and safe this week - and throughout the scorching summer months.</span><br></b></div><div style="text-align: justify; "><br></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Heat exhaustion and heat stroke occur when your body starts to lose the ability to regulate its core temperature. Excessive exposure to heat can cause many symptoms, including:</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br></div><div style="text-align: justify;">☼ Dizziness</div><div style="text-align: justify;">☼ Fatigue</div><div style="text-align: justify;">☼ Headaches</div><div style="text-align: justify;">☼ Excessive sweating</div><div style="text-align: justify;">☼ Nausea and Vomiting</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br></div><div style="text-align: justify;">How to avoid heat exhaustion and heat stroke</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br></div><div style="text-align: justify;">1. Maintain a healthy weight</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br></div><div style="text-align: justify;">People who are obese are at much greater risk for heat-related illnesses. Carrying excess weight can affect your body’s ability to regulate its temperature and cause you to retain more heat. Talk to your doctor if you need help managing your weight.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br></div><div style="text-align: justify;">2. Wear appropriate clothing</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Limit sun exposure when you’re outside by wearing a wide-brimmed hat and light, loose-fitting clothing. Also consider bringing an umbrella, awning, or overhang to protect yourself from the sun.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br></div><div style="text-align: justify;">3. Stay hydrated</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Staying hydrated is key to maintaining a healthy body temperature, particularly during exercise. Drink plenty of fluids the day before and the day of physical activity. During exercise, keep a drink handy that contains salt, electrolytes, and small amounts of sugar, such as Gatorade or Powerade to replenish those substances you have lost while sweating.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br></div><div style="text-align: justify;">You tell us: What are your go-to drinks to stay hydrated in the summer? Tag us on Twitter @MedStarHealth #LiveWellHealthy.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br></div><div style="text-align: justify;">4. Get used to the heat</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br></div><div style="text-align: justify;">If you spend most of your time in the air conditioning and suddenly try to run five miles outdoors, your body might not be ready for that kind of heat exposure. It’s safer to gradually expose yourself to activity outside during the summer.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br></div><div style="text-align: justify;">5. Be extra careful if you’re sick</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Infections such as the flu can cause your body temperature to spike. If you’ve recently overcome an illness, be cautious about the amount of time you spend outside and spend exercising for a couple of weeks.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br></div><div style="text-align: justify;">6. Use the buddy system</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br></div><div style="text-align: justify;">If you’re older than 70, you’re more susceptible to heat stroke due to underlying medical conditions that can affect their body temperature. If you live alone or can’t get around well, the risk is increased, especially if your air conditioner breaks. Use the buddy system - find a friend or relative who can help when the temperature rises. - Medstar Health</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br></div><div style="text-align: justify;">bnbd24/fas</div><div style="text-align: justify; "><br></div>