Heat exhaustion can cause serious health effects, so it is important to know how to prevent this condition.
During these months, High temperatures in Guatemala. At this time, there may be heat -related disorders that put people’s health at risk.
One of them is heat exhaustion, which entails a series of physical effects derived from exposure to extreme temperatures.
For this reason, it is essential to identify what it consists of, what their symptoms are and how to prevent it.
Also read: Why does extreme heat accelerate the aging process?
What is heat exhaustion?
Heat exhaustion is one of the disorders associated with high temperatures. According to the Mayo Clinic, these They can present different levels of gravityfrom mild to potentially Mortal.
Both the Mayo Clinic and the MSD manual they agree that this condition occurs when The organism loses water or salbies in a significant way due to excessive sweating or dehydration.
According to specialists, some of the symptoms of heat exhaustion are:
- Dizziness
- General weakness
- Fall and fast pulse
- Muscle cramps
- Fatigue and tiredness
- Headache
- Blurred vision
- Muscle aches
- Nausea and vomiting
- Fainting
- Low blood pressure
- Extreme thirst, among others
Also read: What is a heat wave and what to do before it?
What to do to prevent heat exhaustion?
These are some tips to avoid a heat exhaustion box, according to the Home Remedios Manual by Dr. John H. Renner and the Institute for Research in Information on Consumer Health (Chirifor its acronym in English) of the United States:
1. Take pure water and don’t wait to be thirsty
Before any physical activity, it is advisable to drink approximately 480 milliliters of water. According to specialists, it is advisable to hydrate before experiencing thirst to prevent heat exhaustion or any similar disorder. Also, water must be fresh, but not cold.
2. Like
Before and after doing physical activity, It is recommended to weigh. Any difference in weight can represent the amount of lost water, which must be responded immediately.
3. Take frequent breaks
Rest regularly if you should perform intense physical activity, especially on hot days. In addition, if he is athlete and experiences abnormal symptoms during a party or career, Remove in time.
4. Do not confuse heat exhaustion with flu
Although some symptoms are similar, if you experience headache, nausea or weakness at a time of high heat exposure, it is likely to be heat exhaustion. However, it is always advisable to go to the doctor to receive adequate guidance.
5. Look for the shadow
To prevent or treat heat exhaustion, It is advisable to look for a shadow site or remain in a place with air conditioning.
6. Place yourself horizontally
If you experience heat exhaustion, Lie with high feet and look for a fresh site.
7. Use carefully ice
Before early symptoms such as muscle cramps, you can apply ice, But not directly on the skin. Remember that too fast cooling can cause a shock.
8. Use adequate garments
Experts indicate that it is important dress fresh, baggy and cotton clothespreferably in light tones, since dark colors absorb heat. In addition, it is not advisable to remove clothes to cool off, because this can make dissipation of body heat difficult.
9. Acclimate
If you are going to participate in a sporting event or activities that involve exposure to heat, Get used to previously to the climatic conditions of the place.
10. Know your medications
If you take any medication, consult with your doctor If you have heat -associated contraindications.
Other recommendations
- Avoid intake of salt pills.
- Lose weight if necessary. Obesity increases the risk of heat exhaustion.
- Protect childrensince they are more susceptible to the effects of heat.
- It does not consume alcohol If it must be exposed to high temperatures.
- If the symptoms of heat exhaustion get worse after taking some measures or if the patient has agitation, confusion, fainting, seizures, disability for drinking or a temperature of 40 degrees Celsius or more, seek medical attention immediately.