Experts warn against the dangers of extreme heat and provide tips for surviving the summer heatwave. On Sunday, July 16, the temperature reached 53.33 degrees Celsius at Death Valley, California, in the US.

In a stark reminder of the effects of global warming, the UN’s World Meteorological Agency (WMO) said the trend showed “no signs of decreasing.” “These events will continue to grow in intensity, and the world needs to prepare for more intense heatwaves,” John Nairn, a senior extreme heat adviser at the WMO, told reporters in Geneva. Nairn was recently quoted saying, “Repeated high nighttime temperatures are particularly dangerous to human health because the body is unable to recover from sustained heat.” He further tweeted, “Hopefully the message is understood. Heatwaves are not going away, and we need to focus on overnight temperatures to protect people from the harm.”

The WMO has stated that the heatwaves recorded around the world may continue to intensify. It is, therefore, important to learn how to protect against the scorching summer heat and prevent heat-related illness.

Heat-related illnesses are classified on a continuum, ranging from heat cramps to heatstroke at the extreme.

All of these conditions are caused by exposure to heat. Heat cramps and heat exhaustion, while mild to moderate, are both caused by exposure to summer heatwaves. “Heatstroke is the worst outcome,” he adds.

Dr Kumar stresses the importance of being aware of heatstroke and heat exhaustion as well as the differences between them.

Heatstroke signs

• High body temperature (103 degrees or more)
• Skin that is hot, red, dry, or moist
• Strong pulse
• Headache
• Dizziness
• Nausea
• Confusión
• Passing out (losing consciousness)

What to do if you have a heat stroke

• Seek medical attention immediately
• Place the person in a cooler area
• Please don’t give them anything to drink
• Cool clothes or a cool bath can help lower a person’s body temperature.

Heat exhaustion symptoms

• Heavy sweating
• Skin that is pale and cold
• Fast and weak pulse
• Nausea or vomiting
• Muscle cramps
• Tiredness and weakness
• Dizziness
• Headache
• Fainting (passing out)

He says that heat exhaustion and heatstroke are different in that heatstroke is characterized by a very high temperature without sweating. In contrast, heat exhaustion may be represented by a low body temperature but severe exhaustion.

How to survive the summer heatwave

Avoid heat

Experts advise avoiding heat exposure as much as you can, particularly during the hottest hours of the day.

The highest temperatures are typically recorded between the hours of 1 pm and early evening. This is a common myth that people think it’s okay to walk around after sunset. Dr Kumar says that the best time to get out is in the morning, between 5 am and 7 am.

Stay Hydrated

Many mobile apps can track your hydration level. Be sure not to overhydrate when you are doing summer workouts.

Choose lightweight fabrics that breathe.

Dr Kumar emphasizes that your clothing is also important. He advises choosing a cotton fabric over synthetic or woolen fabrics.

Ensure proper ventilation

You can use blinds to create airflow in your home during the hotter times of the day.

Stay cool

Keep your body temperature under control with a damp towel. You can also take a cold water bath.

Eat water-rich fruit

Water makes up 70-80% of many fresh fruits and veggies. Watermelon, muskmelon, and other fruits have a water content of almost 93 percent.

Experts suggest eating certain Fruits like mangoes and papayas to beat the summer heat.

Other simple tips to survive a heatwave in the summer include using sunscreen and sunglasses and always carrying a water bottle with you. Doctors recommend wearing loose-fitting clothes and drinking plenty of water to prevent heat rashes as well as heat-induced headaches. These are both common in summer.

Who is more at risk during a summer heatwave

Dr Kumar states that heat-related illness is more common in the elderly, babies, and very young children.

Children under eight years old are at high risk of heat stroke because their immune systems haven’t been fully developed, and their bodies are very volatile. Avoid letting them play in the heat of the day. He warns that even a small amount of exposure to heat can cause serious illness in the elderly or young children.

Takeaway

Heatstroke, which is a medical emergency, can be caused by exposure to heat. Heat-related illnesses are more common in the elderly and children. Experts suggest a variety of practical tips to beat the heat, including avoiding excessive exposure, particularly during peak hours, staying hydrated, and wearing lightweight, breathable fabric.