How to prepare for the arrival of the first heat wave
The first (and feared) heat wave has already been set up in thermometers all over Spain and even in several parts of Europe.
A tropical continental mass from North Africa runs through the whole country and has left a stifling heat, dampness and almost 40 degrees in many parts of Majorca.
Going out in the street in the central hours of the day has become a complicated challenge for many, and from Juaneda Hospitals we would like to prevent possible heat strokes. In other words, prevent the rise in body temperature that can cause damage to multiple organs and even death.
Dr. Liliana Calderón, coordinator of the Emergency Department at Clínica Juaneda, explains a series of points that will help us prevent the days of extreme heat.
It is very important to know that, thanks to the physiological mechanisms of production and heat retention, and those in charge of reducing it (the lungs hyperventilate or the sweaty skin), the body temperature is maintained within values that practically do not vary.
The problem comes when thermal self-regulation mechanisms notice that something is not working and the first symptoms appear: dizziness, cramps and even loss of consciousness.
However, heat stroke occurs when the body exceeds 40 degrees and a multi-organ failure is triggered: the kidney stops functioning normally, the brain does not receive the necessary nutrients, etc…
It is very important that, especially through hydration, we manage to keep the body below this temperature.
Who are the most affected?
The people most sensitive to high temperatures could be divided into different groups:
Children under 6 and people over 65.
Their mechanisms to regulate body temperature are not as efficient as at other ages, and the absence of hydration can trigger states of apathy and even a coma.
2. Young people who practice sports during the hottest hours and do not wear the appropriate clothing.
3. Chronic patients with diabetes or epilepsy, pregnant women, people with heart problems or people with some kind of disability.
It is necessary to be very careful in the first hours of the heat wave as our body takes about 48 hours to adapt to temperature changes.
How to avoid a heat stroke?
- Drink plenty of fluids. If possible, isotonic drinks, as reducing sodium can be problematic.
- Avoid carrying out physical activities during the main hours of the day, which are usually the hottest (between 12:00 and 17:00).
- Wear loose clothing that allows transpiration during sport.
- Keep an eye on the elderly and children and ensure that they are regularly hydrated.
- Try to adapt schedules to the needs of our physiological system.
- Last but not least, one of the most important, use common sense.
Juaneda, close to you.
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