Heat-related illnesses, such as heat exhaustion or heat stroke, occur when the body is unable to cool itself properly. The body primarily gets rid of excess heat through sweat. But when there is too much heat, the body cannot get rid of it efficiently and core temperature rises, which can cause damage to the brain and other vital organs.
What are the diseases caused by exposure to high heat?
Here are 5 diseases that can be caused by exposure to high heat, according to the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health of the US National Institutes for Disease Control and Prevention:
- sunstroke:
Heat stroke is the most serious heat-related illness, and occurs when the body cannot control its temperature, so the body temperature rises rapidly, the sweating mechanism fails, and the body becomes unable to cool down. When heat stroke occurs, the body temperature can rise to 41 degrees Celsius or more within 10 to 15 minutes, and heat stroke can cause permanent disability or death if the person does not receive emergency treatment.
- Heat exhaustion:
It is the body’s response to losing large amounts of water and salts, usually through excessive sweating. Heat exhaustion is more likely to affect the elderly, people with high blood pressure, and people who work in a hot environment.
What should we do if someone has heat stroke or heat exhaustion?
- Call an ambulance and stay with the patient until they arrive.
- Move the patient away from the hot place and place him in the shade.
- Try to remove unnecessary clothing from the patient, including shoes and socks.
- Reduce the patient’s temperature by using cold compresses or by washing his face.
How do we avoid these diseases?
- Drink water regularly to avoid dehydration.
- Wear lightweight, light-colored clothing made of breathable fabrics such as cotton or synthetic fabrics that wick away sweat.
- Try to schedule your outdoor activities during cooler times, such as morning and evening hours, and rest in shaded areas so your body has a chance to recover.
- Reduce exercise during heat.
- If you are not used to working or exercising in a hot environment, start slowly and gradually increase your speed as your body adjusts.
- When working in hot weather, watch your coworkers and have someone else watch you.
- If you are 65 or older, call a friend or relative and ask them to check on you twice a day during a heat wave.If you know someone in this age group, check on them at least twice a day.
- Do not leave children or anyone else in the car because it heats up quickly.