Find out how to maintain your well-being during the summer with some attention
Summer has arrived and the sharp increase in temperatures, which in several Brazilian cities during the season can exceed 40 ºC, can seriously compromise well-being and quality of life. According to the Ministry of Health (MS), excessive exposure to very suffocating environments causes an imbalance in the body’s internal temperature and a reduction in the body’s water reserves, factors that can have a strong impact on health.
Below, discover 5 health problems caused by excessive heat and how to avoid them!
1. Heat stroke
THE heat stroke occurs when the body is unable to adequately regulate its temperature, causing a dangerous increase in internal temperature. If not treated properly, this condition can lead to damage to internal organs and even death, according to the World Health Organization (WHO).
The main symptoms of heat stroke include feeling hot and dry skin, high fever, mental confusion and loss of consciousness. To avoid this, it is advisable to avoid direct exposure to the sun during the hottest hours of the day (between 11am and 4pm), wear light clothing and sun protection, and seek cool environments.
2. Cardiovascular diseases
According to Dr. Alexandre Siciliano, cardiac surgeon and Head of cardiology at the São Lucas Copacabana Hospital, which is part of Dasa, the heat can seriously damage the functioning of the cardiovascular system, especially in people who already suffer from heart problems.
“Excessive heat forces the heart to work harder to regulate body temperature and fight heat stroke, which can lead to an increased heart rate and blood pressure. Therefore, people with hypertension, heart failure or arterial disease should exercise caution during notoriously very hot periods, such as the summer months,” explains the specialist.
Symptoms of worsening cardiovascular disease may include shortness of breath, chest pain, and extreme tiredness. Staying in cool places, avoiding physical exertion, and taking medications recommended by your doctor are ways to protect your cardiovascular system during hot weather.
3. Dehydration
Another threat from prolonged exposure to heat is dehydration, when the body loses more fluid than it ingests and impairs its full functioning. The lack of adequate water exchange can cause a series of signs in the body, such as dry mouth, headaches, dizziness and tiredness.
During days of intense heat, the risk of dehydration increases considerably, especially among children and the elderly who, in many cases, must be encouraged to drink water throughout the day. To prevent dehydration it is essential to drink water, even without feeling thirsty, and avoid excesses of alcoholic, sugary or caffeine-containing drinks, which dehydrate the body.
4. Cramps
Doctor Vitor Dominato, general practitioner at Complexo Hospitalar de Niterói (CHN), also a member of Dasa, feels muscle cramps caused by excessive heat. According to the expert, these involuntary contractions are more frequent in people who carry out physical activity during the hottest days and do not tend to adequately replenish the mineral salts lost through sweat. To prevent cramps, it is important to stay hydrated and consume foods rich in potassium and sodium, such as bananas and sports drinks.
5. Exhaustion
Heat stroke is a condition that occurs when the body loses too much sweat and salt, causing weakness, nausea and dizziness. It is more common in people exposed to intense heat for long periods without adequate rest or hydration. According to Dr. Vitor Dominato, if left unrelieved, heatstroke can quickly progress to heatstroke, making the condition even more serious.
Among the most vulnerable people there are childrenelderly and people with chronic or immunosuppressive diseases. To avoid this, it is essential to rest frequently, wear fresh clothes and consume liquids that replace mineral salts, such as isotonic drinks.
If a person has symptoms related to conditions that may be caused by intense heat, they are advised to consult a doctor as soon as possible to preserve their health and well-being.
By Paula Borges
Source: Terra
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.
