Protect Yourself from Summer Dangers

Education, Education & Support, Health, Living Well, Parkinson's Disease, Self Care, Wellness

Trust me, I am not a reminder service, nor am I a medical professional, but with the soaring heat of summer, it may not be a bad idea for a few reminders to help keep your life a little safer:

  1. If you are taking Sinemet, pay close attention to direct sun exposure. Make sure to wear sunscreen and protection from the rays, so as not to burn.
  2. Check your medications for sun exposure side effects and talk to your neurologist and dermatologist about any moles, rashes, burns or bumps that are irregular, uneven, painful, changing color, or simply suspicious.
  3. Some of us with Parkinson’s have the challenge of self-regulating our body temperature. It is so vitally important to keep cool and to monitor if the sun is having any impact on you.
  4. Keep hydrated! I had a friend who was only drinking a little more than 4 ounces a day. When I found out how little he was drinking and he came back to hydration, my wife and I were amazed to see voice improvement, better cognition, better balance, and I dare say, a healthier look to his skin.
  5. If you have a pet or child, never leave them in a closed car without cool air blowing and water access.
  6. Don’t forget that many surfaces like concrete, blacktop, decking surfaces, and even wood can get blazing hot, making it very uncomfortable for paws and bare feet. If you have poor circulation or neuropathy, this could be very important.
  7. Be aware of your surroundings and your comfort always. Keeping aware will avoid some of those sun hazards.
  8. People with Parkinson’s are notorious for being deficient in vitamin D. Sunlight is great to help replenish your vitamin D level but pay close attention to too much direct exposure. Choose your time of day outside wisely and monitor your local weather for the safest time to walk your dog or go to the garden.
  9. Don’t forget a hat and sunglasses!
  10. Be sure to remember to always crack open at least one car window so you don’t return to a blistering seat and stifling air!

Use good, safe, solid, logic about being in the sun at its least intensity and keep cool!