Here in Israel we are experiencing extremely hot weather. High of 40 C, that’s 104 Fahrenheit!! When I walk outside it’s as if I am in a sauna.
Hot weather usually just makes people feel HOT, but it can also lead to serious and alarming health problems. Experts say that when night time temperatures do not drop much lower than daytime temperatures, there is added stress on the body. It’s important to follow some simple rules to stay healthy during these high temperatures.
1. Drink lots and lots of cool water. You should have water with you at all times.
2. Wear light colored, loose clothing that covers your legs and arms. WEAR A HAT!
3. Avoid hard outdoor physical work.
4. People at risk for heat stress should stay indoors. This includes small children and babies, obese people, older people, people with heart disease and high blood pressure, asthma.
5. Do not drink alcohol
6. When indoors close windows, curtains, and or shades.
The most common problem linked to hot weather is heat stress. Heat stress occurs when the body’s temperature is no longer low enough to cool the body. It’s important to recognize the signs of heat stress. Some people may experience a heat rash; others heat cramps, dizziness and fainting. When this happens stop all activity and move the person indoors to, hopefully, an air-condition environment. Increase fluid and rest for several hours.
Heat exhaustion is a serious condition that can develop into heatstroke. Warning signs may include paleness and sweating, rapid heartbeat, muscle cramps, headache, nausea and vomiting, dizziness or fainting. Get the person to a cool area and lay them down. Remove outer layer of clothing and rub down with cool, damp cloths. Increase fluids slowly and rest for several hours.
Heatstroke is a medical emergency and requires urgent attention!! The symptoms of heatstroke may be the same as for heat exhaustion, but the skin may be dry with no sweating and the person’s mental condition worsens. Most people will have noticeable changes such as confusion, clumsy walk, and may collapse. Call 101, or the emergency number in your area, immediately.
We at EMA Care hope you stay cool and comfortable during this boiling heatwave. Drink lots of water!
EMA Care provides medical concierge, case management, and patient advocacy services to tourists, students and residents of Israel. We can be reached at info@healthcareisrael.com . Schedule your free consultation today.