Experts Advise Gardeners to Stay Cool Amid Oklahoma's Summer Heat

As Oklahoma's summer temperatures soar, reaching near triple digits, gardeners face the dual challenge of maintaining their plants and safeguarding their health.

David Hillock, a consumer horticulturist with Oklahoma State University Extension, emphasizes the importance of recognizing and preventing heat-related illnesses.

He notes that symptoms of heat exhaustion include heavy sweating, weakness, dizziness, nausea, and an elevated heart rate.

If these signs are ignored, they can escalate to heat stroke, a life-threatening condition characterized by high body temperature, confusion, lack of sweating, rapid breathing, seizures, and potential loss of consciousness.

Immediate medical attention is crucial in such cases.

To minimize the risk of heat-related issues, experts recommend the following strategies:

Stay Hydrated: Drink 2 to 4 cups of water every hour while working outdoors.

The body loses significant fluids through sweating, and replenishing them is vital to prevent dehydration.

Time Your Gardening: Schedule gardening tasks for early morning or late evening when temperatures are cooler.

This practice reduces direct sun exposure and lessens the strain on the body.

Dress Appropriately: Wear light-colored, lightweight, and loose-fitting clothing.

A wide-brimmed hat can provide shade for the face and neck, enhancing comfort.

Contrary to intuition, long sleeves and pants can protect the skin from direct sun exposure and may help keep the body cooler.

Take Regular Breaks: If outdoor work is unavoidable during peak heat, ensure frequent breaks in shaded or cool areas to allow the body to recover.

Dr. Stacy Chronister, an internal medicine specialist at the OSU Center for Health Sciences, highlights the compounded effect of Oklahoma's high humidity.

She explains that while sweating is the body's natural cooling mechanism, humidity hampers the evaporation of sweat, making it harder for the body to cool down.

Dr. Chronister advises starting hydration well before outdoor activities, recommending the consumption of about 4 cups of water two hours prior and 1 cup every 15 to 20 minutes during exposure.

After prolonged sweating, replenishing electrolytes becomes essential.

Additionally, applying sunscreen with at least SPF 30, including often-missed areas like the tops of ears and the scalp, is crucial to protect against harmful UV rays.

Gardeners should also be aware of factors that increase susceptibility to heat-related illnesses:

Age: Children under 4 and adults over 65 are at higher risk.

Medications: Certain prescriptions for high blood pressure or heart conditions can impair the body's ability to stay hydrated.

Obesity: Excess body weight can hinder the body's cooling processes.

High Heat Index: Elevated humidity levels slow down sweat evaporation, making it more challenging for the body to cool itself.

By implementing these precautions, gardeners can continue to enjoy their passion while minimizing health risks during Oklahoma's intense summer heat.

Remember, the key to a thriving garden is a healthy gardener.