Originally published in Hideaway Lake News on July 2 , 2021
After a rather wet and cool spring, we’re now in the midst of our hot Texas summer. Let’s make sure we stay cool and safe.
A veteran golfer came up to me this week and said “Doc, you need to tell people to use umbrellas on the green!”. We ended up talking about how most golfers have minimal sun protection on the green as they stand for several minutes waiting for everyone to get their turn. They do have shade in their carts while riding around, and some wear caps. Hopefully all are wearing sunscreen. But the sunscreen is probably all wiped off after the very first hole due to all the sweating and wiping within the first few minutes! I’ve rarely seen anyone reapply sunscreen on the course. Some say they don’t wear sunscreen because it stings their eyes as the sweat pours in. So the best thing to do is to wear a very wide brimmed hat that protects not only your face but your chest and neck. You might also consider carrying a light umbrella for when you’re standing in the wide open green.
And don’t forget to take a water bottle and fill it at each watering station. It’s very easy to get dehydrated between stations on the golf course, especially if you’re older and taking certain medications. It’s not enough to just get a few sips in a conical paper cup every few holes! Don’t wait until you get thirsty to drink water, just keep drinking the entire time you’re out in the sun. Being out on the lake in the summer heat can also take its toll. Frequently reapply sunscreen and don’t skimp on drinking water just because you’re surrounded by all that water on the lake!
Try to avoid the peak afternoon sun if possible because heat exhaustion can quickly turn into a heat stroke if you’re not careful.
Most of us are aware of sun burns and heat rashes and how to take care of them. But many may not be aware of the warning symptoms of heat cramps, heat exhaustion and heat stroke. If you develop muscle cramps while playing golf in the hot sun, you may be getting heat cramps. Stop playing immediately and get to a cool place where you can get hydrated. You’re at especially high risk if you’re on medications that cause low sodium such as for high blood pressure or heart problems, or if you sweat profusely. Talk to your doctor about safely using a sports drink for electrolytes, in addition to water if you get heat cramps.
Clammy skin, lightheadedness, headache, nausea and fast heart rate are all symptoms of heat exhaustion. Call for help immediately if you have any of these symptoms. Loosen your clothes, get to a cool place, drink lots of water and get prompt medical help if you are vomiting, not improving or symptoms last more than an hour.
If your skin feels hot and DRY, your body temperature is over 103 F or you get confused, call 911. You might be having a heat stroke and need immediate medical attention.
Enjoy the lovely summer in Hideaway’s pools, lakes and golf courses. Just take a few simple steps to stay hydrated and protected from the sun. Happy summer to us all!