Doctors reminded of precautions during heatwaves

Extreme heat is now becoming a common topic: it occurs more frequently, is more intense, and lasts longer. High temperatures are recorded simultaneously in various parts of the world, including distant continents — America and Europe — covering increasingly vast areas.

Heat is observed even in regions where it was previously rare. A vivid example is Europe this year. The average number of days with extreme heat increased from 20 in 1979 to 143 in 2019.

The scientific community almost unanimously links these changes to the climate crisis. Extreme heat is now a new, possibly irreversible reality that humanity must live with. Temperatures once considered abnormal will recur and intensify, setting new records and causing human casualties as well as serious economic, social, and political consequences.

Even before the end of this summer, heatwaves, droughts, and wildfires have already claimed many lives in Europe and other parts of the world.

To counter the effects of heat, the following are necessary:

• Individual measures to protect against high temperatures (managing symptoms)
• Collective efforts to eliminate the root cause — the climate crisis

The top priority is preserving human life and health, which involves knowing how to protect oneself.

What happens to the body during extreme heat?

The body cools itself through sweating. As sweat evaporates, it removes heat from the body. However, at high temperatures and humidity, this mechanism fails, and the body cannot cool down effectively, leading to overheating.

The greatest risk from heat is posed to:

• Children under 4 years old
• Elderly people (over 65)
• Athletes
• People consuming alcohol
• Those taking medication (diuretics, sedatives, antihypertensives)
• People with chronic illnesses (cardiovascular, pulmonary, and liver diseases, thyroid dysfunction, diabetes, obesity)

In extreme heat, hyperthermia — an elevated body temperature — develops. At 37.3 °C and above, unpleasant symptoms may occur:

• Muscle cramps due to electrolyte loss
• Heat exhaustion: weakness, rapid pulse, nausea, dizziness
• Skin irritation
• Heat stress (especially for those working outdoors)

Body temperature above 40 °C can cause heat stroke — a dangerous condition that can lead to brain and internal organ damage.

Symptoms of heat stroke:

• Seizures
• Dizziness
• Confusion
• Headache
• Nausea
• Hot, dry skin
• Rapid breathing
• Weak pulse

In severe cases, the following are possible:

• Muscle breakdown
• Acute kidney failure
• Respiratory failure
• Heart arrhythmias
• Coma

The mortality rate from heat stroke can reach 25%.

What to do in case of heat stroke:

• Call emergency services immediately
• Move the affected person to the shade
• Cool the body with water or by washing
• Apply cold compresses to the groin and armpits
• Reduce body temperature (preferably below 38.3 °C) before medical help arrives

Preventive measures:

• Avoid intense exertion in the heat
• Drink plenty of fluids (water, unsweetened drinks)
• Avoid alcohol
• Wear light clothing and a hat
• Use sunscreen
• Take cool showers or baths regularly
• Do not leave children or animals in closed vehicles
• Stay in cool indoor environments

Research shows: heat reduces cognitive function by 10–13%, increases the risk of accidents and poor decisions. It also raises the likelihood of kidney disease, skin infections, premature births, and heightened aggression.