Health

Bicyclists, be aware of the risks of heat illness during rides in hot weather.

The long ride in the heat may be too much for some bikers. However, some novice riders believe they can handle anything at any moment. Some of the others are either inept or unfit. Others are not built to withstand intense heat or physical activity in the heat. Everyone who rides a motorcycle in hot weather should know the symptoms and treatments for heat-related diseases. Preventing heat-related sickness is the most effective treatment. Here we mention a few of these diseases.

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At least 12 heat-related ailments can result from exercising outside while it’s hot.

One high sodium level (hypernatremia). Most bikers won’t have this blood salt imbalance because they maintain a healthy diet and fluid intake while cycling. High sodium levels in the blood result from either not drinking enough water or becoming dehydrated due to perspiration or urination in hot climates.

Low sodium levels (hyponatremia). Most bikers will not notice this salt disruption for the reasons described above. People on a water-only diet with no food or electrolyte intake may develop hyponatremia, a disorder characterized by blood salt levels that are significantly lower than usual. Nausea, vomiting, headache, pain, drowsiness, and confusion are all signs of it. In extreme circumstances, death occurs.

Loss of water (dehydration). The lack of fluids is the most typical cause of this disease. Physically, this indicates a lack of water compared to dissolved salts. Water or sports drinks should be consumed often during rides in hot weather.

4 Electrolyte depletion due to water intoxication. When you down a lot of water, as when you’re hot and thirsty, you risk developing this illness. Water intake exceeds the kidneys’ capacity. This causes an overall diluting of the electrolytes and blood system. The cells enlarge as the excess water in the blood enters them. If this happens in the brain, it can lead to headaches, breathing problems, and general body slowing. Maintaining proper electrolyte balance requires frequent consumption of foods, fruits or juices, and fortified snacks and liquids by cyclists.

Hyperthermia (also known as sunstroke) 5. The term “stroke” describes the extreme type of hyperthermia. Hyperthermia develops when the body generates or absorbs more heat than its natural cooling processes can dissipate. When the thermoregulatory mechanism of the body is overworked, the temperature of the body increases uncontrollably. Heat exhaustion is a life-threatening condition. Treatments include rapidly lowering the body temperature and lying flat in the shade or cool air with the head and shoulders elevated, as this is considered a medical emergency. To get aid, dial 9-1-1. A cyclist can also quickly cool off by bathing in cool water.

Heat exhaustion (tiredness). 6. This ailment develops when there is a significant loss of bodily fluids and salt through sweat and feces. The elderly, people on medications to lower their blood pressure, and those engaged in strenuous physical activity in hot weather are particularly vulnerable to heat exhaustion. Relax in the cool shade. This problem responds well to a bath in chilly water.

Muscle spasms due to heat exhaustion 7. Extreme sweat during exercise or other strenuous physical activity can dehydrate the body and lead to unpleasant muscular cramps. Heat exhaustion can also cause muscle cramps. Get off your bike and rest someplace lovely and shady. Exercise and preparation for long, hot rides can also help lessen the likelihood of cramping.

Sunburn (skin injury) 8. Sunburn causes skin damage, which is very uncomfortable. It also prevents the body from cooling itself, mainly through perspiration. Lightweight, light-colored, loose clothing will provide adequate skin shade and sweat evaporation. Apply a generous dose of sunscreen lotion that is safe for your skin type to any exposed skin.

9. red bumps caused by heat. This rash develops when the body sweats excessively and then is rubbed by other parts of the body, by outer clothing, or wet underclothing. Red bumps or blisters may form on the face, neck, chest, back, armpits, groin, under the breasts, or in the skin folds around the joints. The rash should be washed and treated with an ointment or powder. Padding in the crotch and seat areas, either additional or replacement, can also help with heat rash.

10 – Swelling caused by the heat. The lower extremities, hands, or arms are swelling due to inactivity or prolonged exposure to high temperatures. Get up and about; relax. Before long, hot rides, train.

Typhoid (hyperventilation) due to heat. The heat and tension induced heavy breathing. Put on the brakes, please. Take frequent shady breaks.

Syncope (or pass out) from heat. Getting up too quickly after sitting or lying during intense exercise can produce dizziness. Lightheadedness is caused by fluids in the upper body rushing to the lower body. Relax by propping up your legs while lying down. This period of recovery is typically brief.

Advice on the basics of staying calm when cycling

Pick rides that offer plenty of shade, and try to avoid taking them in the middle of the day.

Drink more water than your thirst tells you to daily, but avoid sugary sodas and alcoholic beverages.
Instead of just water and food, try fruit juices or energy drinks.
Keep enough water or other hydrating liquids on hand at all times.
Eat foods like fruits, sandwiches, and sports bars to compensate for the salt and minerals you’ll lose.

Keep your body temperature down by avoiding spicy foods and large, heavy meals.
Unless your doctor tells you to, avoid taking salt pills.
Choose clothing and a head covering that will provide the necessary protection from the sun.

Cover up exposed skin with a thick layer of sunscreen lotion.
Prepare your body for cycling in hot weather by acclimating to the heat.
When biking in hot weather, take it easy on the pedals. In other words, go at a more leisurely pace. Take frequent shady breaks.
Get air conditioning at a public building, or learn how to cool yourself in a body of water such as a creek, pond, or faucet.

Get a lift from a friend. Keep your needs manageable by the average person.
Have the numbers for calling for help programmed into your cell phone.
If you start to feel the effects of the heat, it’s probably a good idea to call it quits or at least slow down.
Preventative measures are the best line of protection you have against heat-related illnesses. Please visit these links for further reading.

linda