How does heat make us feel bad and can lead to extreme cases? Doctors explain how to prevent

Taylor Swift’s show in Rio had audiences begging for water and fainting; fan Ana Clara Benevides fell ill and died

The first show of the singer’s “The Eras Tour”. Taylor Swift in Brazil it took place at the Nilton Santos stadium, in Rio de Janeirothis Friday 17th – the day of the city recorded a record thermal sensation of almost 60°C. With an audience of around 60 thousand people, the event was characterized by a strong presence Heatwith people who feel bad, do not take water and fainting. The show was scheduled for 7.30pm, but most of the audience arrived during the day and spent hours queuing before getting in, braving the high temperatures. A fan who was at the stadium, Ana Clara Benevides, 23 years old, he fell ill and died early in the show.

OR Estadao consulted doctors to understand what happens to our body with very high temperatures and how it is possible to prevent ourselves in these situations.

Why do we feel bad in the heat?

According to Marcelo Ferraz Sampaio, a cardiologist at Beneficência Portuguesa in São Paulo, there are a number of possible impacts on the human body when exposed to extreme temperatures. He explains that, in these situations, the body, to maintain a stable internal temperature, diverts blood flow towards the skin region and increases sweat production, trying to cool down. “If the person does not have an adequate level of hydration, this alone will cause a reduction in blood pressure, which can cause discomfort and fainting,” he says.

In this situation, sweat, explains the expert, acts as a compensation mechanism, but also causes the loss of water and electrolytes, such as sodium, potassium and magnesium, which can cause so-called “heat fatigue”. “This condition can involve headache, general malaise, weakness, nausea and vomiting. And sometimes it can progress to even more serious conditions, such as, for example, cardiac arrhythmias,” says the doctor.

Vascular surgeon Cristienne Souza points out that when people face high temperatures at events with many people, such as concerts, the situation can be even worse. “The body increases sweating to aid cooling, but in overcrowded, hot environments, this heat dissipation capacity can be compromised,” she says.

As the scenario continues, other consequences could also occur. “If you maintain a situation of exacerbated heat, without adequate hydration, there will be an increase in heart rate, generating discomfort. The thickness of the blood will also increase, i.e. the thickening of the blood, forming clots that can generate some embolic phenomena, can lead to heart attack, hit or stroke”, explains cardiologist Marcelo Ferraz Sampaio.

In more extreme cases, very long periods at high temperatures, even more serious complications can occur, such as hemolysis, which is the destruction of red blood cells, or rhabdomyolysis, which is a muscle breakdown leading to acute kidney injury. says the doctor. “These phenomena, which can range from mild to exacerbated, will depend on whether the heat is very strong, whether the person is directly exposed and whether adequate hydration does not occur.”

How can you avoid getting sick in extreme heat?

Doctors emphasize a key element of health care in times of extreme heat: hydration.

In the case of the Taylor Swift concert, the head of the Ticket for Fun organization was criticized for having vetoed the entry of water, which was sold inside the stadium. Due to demand, however, fans were unable to purchase, and the singer herself launched an appeal for water to be distributed from above the stage. Accordingly, the govt announced a new rule, which allows the entry of water bottles for personal use at shows starting from Saturday 18th. Tickets For Fun has also specified that it will strengthen the provision of free water in queues and in the stadium and will allow the entry of flexible plastic bottles.

“You must be absolutely hydrated and it is not enough to drink liquids first, you must drink liquids continuously. At very high temperatures you must maintain this hydration, which must be a combination of water, coconut water, isotonic water, liquids, which can actually also replace electrolytes “, says Marcelo Ferraz Sampaio, of Beneficência Portuguesa. “It seems that there has been a problem in relation to this issue of not being able to bring water, but the organization itself could provide hydration, as well as place ventilated and crowd-free places where people who feel unwell can go to rest, hydrate themselves, or even go to bed.”

“From an individual point of view, in addition to hydration before and during the event, it is also advisable to eat light foods, avoid alcohol and caffeine, move the calves frequently while standing and wear light clothing and sun protection”, indicates the vascular surgeon Cristienne Souza. Another recommendation is to cover your head, so as not to expose yourself too much to the sun.

You also need to be aware of people who are more vulnerable to illness and complications from intense heat, such as people with pre-existing medical conditions, people using certain medications, older adults, children, pregnant women, and people with heart problems. or breathing problems. Another point of attention are people who have drunk too much or used illicit drugs, says cardiologist Marcelo Ferraz Sampaio, of the Beneficência Portuguesa.

What to do if you feel sick due to the heat?

According to doctors, it is essential for people to hydrate properly. When you notice symptoms such as malaise, weakness, or feeling faint, actions such as seeking a cooler, airier place, lying down immediately, and loosening your clothing may help, but you should also seek immediate medical attention.

Source: Terra

Ben

Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.