When everyone else is enjoying the beach, picnics and fireworks, the infirm suffer through pain, general discomfort and fatigue.  While being ill at any time during the year is a burden, it seems especially so during the warm summer months.

If you are suffering with some malady as you read this and are wishing for relief, I have some suggestions for you.  Since you are sick, you have a right to indulge in some self soothing behaviors. If you are diabetic, use artificial sweeteners instead of sugar and diet drinks for any of the following:

1. Ice cold ginger ale is the best remedy for stomach upset.  Ginger is used in many countries as a standard treatment for nausea.  Cola products are also excellent for those suffering from a stomach virus.

2. When the appetite is depressed and nothing seems to taste good, it is time to think about ice cream as an alternative food source.  Milk shakes, Eggnog and Malted milk drinks provide lots of protein and calories when meat, eggs and fish have lost their charm because of illness.  This is especially true for seniors who may be eating very little or won’t eat at all.  Ice cream always seems to do the trick and has the added benefit of staving off heat exhaustion.

3. Ice cream sodas are also a good source of energy, protein and calories for those who are refusing food.  Red Pop and vanilla ice cream make an especially good combination.  Just make sure the soda is free from caffeine.

4. To stave off dehydration, ice cold lemonade made with real lemons not only is great for keeping people hydrated,  but offers lots of natural vitamin C.  Ice tea made from any number of herbal teas is an especially wonderful treat during the hot summer months.  Just put the tea bags of your choice in water, microwave for 5 minutes and then add ice.  A touch of mint provides comfort for an upset stomach.

5. When fatigue takes over, take a nap.  If napping is not for you then rent a movie and relax in a comfy chair or couch. Rest is the best way for the body to heal.

6. Don’t force yourself to do anything if you are not well.  Housework and garden work are going to have to wait until you are better.  If you have a job, please remember that you are not working at your best when you are ill.  If you have an infectious disease, you are spreading disease where ever you go, so please stay home.

Those who suffer from chronic illness face special challenges throughout the summer.  It is important to recognize that more people are killed by heat than any other weather phenomenon.  During the Chicago heat wave of 1995, more than 700 people died in that city alone.  The chronically ill are at the greatest risk during the hottest days of the summer because they frequently don’t realize that they are over-heated or dehydrated.

If you are ill during warm summer days, be aware that you will need to seek out a cooler, quiet environment and drink more fluids than the average person.   Most importantly, rest - you will recover more quickly if you do.