We are all feeling the heat, literally! The Earth is getting hotter with every passing year and that’s not a good sign at all. Many European countries registered record high temperatures this summer. There are many reasons why the mercury is soaring across the world with climate change being the key causes put forth by scientists.
Extreme Heat Can Cause Serious Illness
Regardless of the reasons, extreme heat is something that we have to get used to as summer temperatures are unlikely to come down anytime in the near future. At the same time, it is necessary to take adequate protection of one’s health as heat can cause a number of illnesses, even some life-threatening ones.
According to doctors, the elderly, young children, and those who have chronic health problems are at the greatest risk of suffering from heat-related illness. However, even healthy individuals may feel the harmful effects of extreme heat if they are not careful.
It is important for you to know the symptoms of heat-related illness when they step out into hot weather or have to stay out in the sun for an extended period of time.
The Symptoms To Look For Are:
In many instances, if you ignore these early symptoms of heat-related illness, it can develop into heatstroke which is a serious health issue. The body temperature in stroke-affected persons can rise up to 40 degrees C. The symptoms of stroke caused by extreme heat include profuse sweating, high body temperature, loss of consciousness, confusion, and slurred speech. Some individuals may also suffer seizures.
The above-mentioned symptoms of extreme heat affected body can have serious health repercussions. It may lead to brain damage and can be even fatal in extreme cases.
Precautions To Be Taken In Heat Conditions
The best way to deal with extreme heat is to avoid going out in the sun when it is beating down in all its fury – that’s sometime around noon. Check what the heat index is and venture out only if you have to. As far as possible, stay indoors, especially if you are an elderly person and already suffering from some health issues.
Keep Hydrating Your Body
The best way of beating the heat and ensuring that the extreme heat does not affect your health adversely is to keep your body hydrated with water. Avoid aerated drinks, coffee, caffeine, and alcohol. Take multiple water breaks as the summer heat can quickly drain the water content in your body and sap your energy.
Use the Right Clothes
It is also advisable to wear good quality sunscreen. Cotton is the best material to use for providing protection during summer.
Consult your Urgent Care doctor at the first signs of any symptoms of heatstroke and do it immediately as delay can prove to be fatal. If you are on any medications, check with your doctor if they can aggravate body heat before you consume them.
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