Heat hits and their deadly consequences

• April 25, 2024

Every year, in Mexico, the number of people who die due to heat shocks so common in the north of the country increases. Only in the state of Sonora , the death of 12 people has been reported due to the high temperatures recorded this year. In some European countries, such as Spain, Italy or Greece, where the summer is very hot and long, with temperatures that have reached 48 degrees at 5 o'clock in the afternoon, constant calls are made to protect health. Recall that during the heat wave (the hottest season) in Europe in 2003, more than 14 thousand people died as a result of the heat wave.

Researchers at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in the United States explain that, generally, the body cools only by sweating. In hot climates, especially with high humidity levels, sweating is not enough. Body temperature can rise to dangerous levels and it is possible to develop certain diseases. Most of these occur because of being exposed to the heat too long, or by exercising too much for age and physical condition. Older adults, young children, and people who are sick or overweight are at greater risk. Consuming abundant liquids, replenishing salts and minerals and limiting the time of exposure to heat can help.

Diseases related to heat

Heatstroke: It is the most dangerous disease and occurs when the body is unable to control its temperature. It increases rapidly, the mechanism of sweating fails and the body fails to reduce fever that can reach 41 degrees or more in 10 to 15 minutes. Heat stroke can cause death or some kind of permanent disability if it is not treated immediately. Symptoms include dry skin, rapid and strong pulse and dizziness.

Heat exhaustion: It is a mild form of disease that can appear after several days of exposure to high temperatures and inadequate or poor fluid replacement. The most susceptible people are the elderly, the hypertensive and those who work or exercise in hot environments. Symptoms may include profuse sweating, rapid breathing, and an accelerated and weak pulse.

Heat cramps: they are muscle aches or spasms, usually in the abdomen, arms or legs, associated with strenuous physical exercise. People who sweat a lot while doing intense activities are prone to suffer this type of cramping. Sweat exhausts salt and moisture from the body. The low level of salt in the muscles produces painful cramps. They can also be a symptom of heat exhaustion. If you have heart problems or follow a low sodium diet, seek immediate medical attention.

Skin rashes due to heat (rash): It is an irritation of the skin caused by excessive sweating in a hot and humid climate. It can occur at any age, but it is more common among young children. The heat rash has the appearance of a set of reddened pimples or small blisters. It is more likely to appear on the neck, upper chest, groin, under the breasts and in the folds of the elbows.

Video Medicine: Global Heat: Britain sees longest heatwave in 42 years, deadly heat in Japan and Arctic forest fires (April 2024).