Symptoms From the Heat of Summer
In Canada, we have an all too brief warm weather season, so most of us tend to look forward to the summertime. Sometimes the heat that we crave can be dangerous, and drinking more water may not always be the answer. We need to be aware of symptoms from the heat. When we are feeling unwell, we need to understand the cause and find actions to balance our body. We can then simply enjoy ourselves instead of avoiding or even dreading the hot days.
Heat stroke is serious and requires immediate medical attention. Heat exhaustion can also cause lingering issues even after it is resolved. This can happen at any age to people of any physical condition. One person I know decided to install a gazebo on the hottest day of the year. They were young and did receive medical attention, but they were out of commission for a couple of weeks after. A year later they were still suffering from lack of energy. In their case, this was due to heart weakness that persisted.
Other symptoms from the heat
The heat and humidity of summer weather can affect us in other ways, too. Here are four other symptoms to watch for, what they mean in our bodies, and what to do to bring the body back into balance.
Swelling
Swelling is often related to kidney function. Circulation of fluids as well as water/mineral balance are based on kidney health. Emotionally, the kidneys deal with anxiety and stress. Staying hydrated is definitely important in the warmer weather, and drinking water is fine to a point. However, if your kidneys are not providing you with enough minerals, too much water will create more symptoms. More than 4 ounces every 20 minutes can be problematic for people with poor kidney function. Eating a balanced diet of protein and vegetables can be very helpful. There are also specific remedies I can give to help with kidney function and emotional stress.
If you are having symptoms, I recommend you avoid pork, dairy products including ice cream, and deep-fried foods. Sugary drinks can also cause trouble with the pancreas then kidney symptoms. As an alternative, try having fruit instead of juice or soda pop, especially as a snack rather than a meal replacement. Also, having a protein drink for breakfast may not be a balanced way to “eat” in the summer. Most times the drink includes too much fruit or other sweeteners.
Energy loss
Summer is the heart time of the year. Any heart related symptoms will be magnified: chest pain, arm pain. For women: pain behind the shoulder blade, indigestion. If you have these symptoms, do get checked out medically.
When someone has no energy in the hot weather, it is often related to poor heart health. I do recommend you get checked medically. There may not be much a doctor can help with unless there is a major heart symptom. Emotionally the heart feels lack of joy when out of balance. There are remedies geared to healing the heart and these can bring back much needed energy to those suffering.
Shortness of breath
Shortness of breath and/or waking between 3 and 5am unable to get back to sleep are lung symptoms. Emotionally, lung symptoms are signs of depression and sadness. Remedies treating the lungs and doing emotional healing work will often bring balance for those with shortness of breath.
Red face
Getting a red face in the heat is related to overthinking and too much energy in the head. This can also be due to high blood pressure. Taking time off and knowing you need to de-stress are important factors. I can work with you to help you understand what the stress is about and take action to shift the tension. A remedy for brain congestion may also be indicated if you’re one who experiences a red face in the heat.
Seeking help
Regardless of symptoms, each time I work with people who come to me for help, I check all aspects of health for feedback about how the body, mind, and spirit are doing. It is important to improve all aspects of health and to maintain an attitude of “all is well” to expect our body to deal with summer stresses to the heart, lungs, kidneys and circulation. The more you maintain your overall health, the easier you cope with weather extremes and are able to enjoy every day. Please contact me if you would like more information on how I could help you with your summer health concerns and symptoms from the heat.