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3 Ways to Prevent a Sickle Cell Crisis in the Summer

July 6, 2015 by Andrea
 Photo by Staffage via: kaboompics.com

Photo by Staffage via: kaboompics.com



Those colder months are but a memory now that summer has finally arrived. But, that doesn't mean that sickle cell warriors are out of the woods when it comes to the chance of a weather-related crisis popping up. Check out our tips for staying healthy with sickle cell during the warmer months, so that you and your family can enjoy less worry and an abundance of fun!

1. Get Lots of Fluids.
Water. Gatorade. Smoothies. Whatever your child -- or you -- enjoy drinking the most that's non-caffeinated and non-alcoholic. Of course, water is the absolute best. To make plain ol' water more fun, try infusing a pitcher of the stuff with fresh fruits. Why stay away from the caffeinated and/or alcoholic drinks? Beverages such as sodas, coffee, and wine also act as diuretics and can cause you to lose more fluids than you're taking in. According to the dailyburn.com, you can also eat your fluids! Soup, yogurt, watermelon, celery, cucumbers, strawberries, and lettuces are also great sources of hydration.

2. Avoid Sudden Temperature Changes.
You'll probably be doing a lot of swimming this summer, but before jumping into the pool, make sure you (or your little sickle cell warrior) rinses off with lukewarm water, so that your body slowly adjusts to the temperature change. Also be sure to wipe off any excess sweat and sit under some shade before running into an air conditioned place after being outside in the heat, as UW Health suggests.

3. Choose Your Adventure -- Wisely.
Vacationing with sickle cell doesn't have to be an anxiety-inducing thing, but you should definitely do some research on where you're going and what activities you plan to do while there, so you can be prepared. For example, if you plan to go hiking above 7,000 feet, you may need to bring along some oxygen with you. Even if you're not planning to hike above more than a couple thousand feet, you'll still need to plan rest periods, so that you don't over exert yourself and send your body into crisis.

Have any other tips for preventing a sickle cell crisis during the warmer months? Leave them in the comments below!



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