In recent days, Guatemala has registered high temperatures in various parts of the country. This situation can affect health if it does not act with prevention.
One of the frequent incidents during this season is the heatstroke. Guatemalan pediatrician Edgar Beltetón defines it as a medical emergency that occurs when the body fails to regulate its body temperature, which can exceed 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit).
According to the specialist, this picture can be presented for three main causes: Prolonged exposure to the sun or very hot environments, intense physical activity with little hydration and use of inadequate clothing that prevents perspiration.
In addition to the increase in body temperature, heat stroke can manifest with Hot skin, red and dry, confusion, dizziness, disorientation, headaches, nausea, vomiting, tachycardia and, in more serious cases, loss of consciousness.
Epidemiologist Erwin Calgua warns that children and elderly are the most vulnerable to these extreme climatic conditions, especially in departments such as Izabal, Petén, Escuintla and other warm areas of the country.
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Recommendations to protect children from heat stroke
1. guarantee adequate hydration
Beltetón emphasizes that water consumption is the first prevention measure. Calgua adds that child feeding should be monitored to avoid dehydration. Including fruits rich in water, such as watermelon and orange, is recommended.
2. Use specific sunscreen for children
It is advisable to avoid the use of blockers designed for adults. Children’s products usually contain mineral physical filters, such as titanium dioxide and zinc oxide, with less chemicals. In addition, they offer greater water resistance and are easy to apply.
3. Dress up right clothes
Both specialists recommend dressing light clothes, of light colors, as well as the use of caps. These measures favor body ventilation and prevent heat accumulation.
4. Avoid games in heat hours
During the warmer hours of the day, it is advised that children avoid intense physical activities. If you want to share hobbies with your children, Board games They are a good option, provided that it is done indoors.
5. Look for shadow and fresh places
Belteton emphasizes the importance of avoiding sun exposure between 10 and 16 hours. Resting in fresh places and the shadow is key to preventing heat stroke.
6. Never leave children inside parked vehicles
Calgua emphasizes that leaving a minor inside a closed car represents a deadly risk. In long or traffic journeys, it is vital to ensure adequate ventilation and have liquids for oral rehydration.
What to do before a heat blow?
Before a heat stroke, specialists recommend these measures:
- Call emergency services immediately.
- Move the person to a cool place. Allow you to rest on this site until you can recover.
- Cool the body with wet cloths, fans or cold baths.
- Do not administer fluids if the person is unconscious, since this can aggravate the situation.
Finally, it is advisable to have the contact of a trusted specialist and the relief bodies before any possible emergency. Remember that this information is guidance; Before any abnormal symptom, consult your doctor immediately.