Summer had not arrived and the heat was already hitting everything in Spain. The thermometer jumped last April to 38.8 °C, the highest temperature ever recorded for that time of year. But now that June has arrived, everything indicates that it will be worse. Last Sunday, for example, the town of El Granado, in the Andalusian province of Huelva, faced a maximum of 43.8 °C.
This is just beginning, so care from now on is essential. The World Health Organization warns that heat waves are among the most dangerous natural hazards. Health threats affect the entire population, but increase in some vulnerable groups: children, the elderly, pregnant people, the chronically ill or workers in exposed environments.
The premise is not to skimp on prevention. Cramps, heat stroke, dehydration and exhaustion are just some of the consequences of high temperatures. Some effects, if left unattended, can be fatal.
At least 15 thousand people died last year in Europe due to the heat, according to a WHO report. The second most affected country was Spain, with an estimated 4,000 deaths. Therefore, please take note of these five key tips to avoid putting your health at risk during a heat wave.
1. Stay out of the sun during a heat wave
Avoid going outside, especially during the central hours of the day: between 12 noon and 6 pm. If you have to, try to walk in the shade, with a hat or cap. Leave physical activity for the night. Pay attention to the clothes you are going to wear: light colors and materials such as fine cotton or linen will help you stay fresh. Another tip not to forget in a heat wave: wear plenty of sunscreen.
2. Don’t wait until you’re thirsty
Dehydration is the main problem with heat waves. Therefore, pay attention to how much water you are consuming. Do not wait to be thirsty: it is best to drink continuously and little by little. Aside from water, cold fruit juices are another great option (but not a substitute). Be very careful with coffee and alcoholic beverages: he Ministry of Health warns that, on the contrary, they accelerate the dehydration of the organism. And the food, keep it light: salads, fruits, vegetables and gazpachos help to replenish the salts lost through sweat.
3. Moderation with air conditioning
Air conditioning is usually our dearest ally. But be careful: the contrast in temperatures poses some dangers to our body. So an important piece of advice during a heat wave is not to abuse it. For this same reason, don’t jump into a cold shower. Better warm water at first and then gradually lower the temperature. The Red Cross It is recommended to close the blinds and curtains of the house during the day (to avoid direct sunlight) and to ventilate the spaces at night.
4. Beware of closed cars!
Locked and parked cars are a big NO. The Spanish Association of Pediatrics and the Mapfre Foundation explain in a report that, with an outside temperature of 39°C, the interior of a vehicle can heat up to over 60°C in just 15 minutes. Never leave a person or pet in these conditions. This is a very high risk situation.
5. The essential advice during a heat wave: consult the doctor
This is the most important tip to keep in mind during a heat wave. The Ministry of Health recommends going to a health center if after one hour the symptoms caused by heat persist. Pay attention to headache, dizziness, nausea or vomiting, increased body temperature or feeling down.
What is a heat stroke and what to do?
Heat stroke (or thermal shock) is one of the most serious cases of hyperthermia. It refers to the overheating suffered by the body due to high temperatures. It can also be a consequence of excessive physical exercise. The lack of hydration causes various organs to stop working as they would normally.
Symptoms include red skin (which may be dry or clammy), changes in consciousness, vomiting, and high fever. The Red Cross It is recommended to immediately call the emergency number if you know that someone presents this box. While help arrives:
- Place the person in a shady spot.
- Take off his clothes to air him out.
- If he is conscious, position his head slightly elevated and offer him plenty of water.
- DO NOT give him fluids if he is unconscious.
- Cool him down with cold water or ice, especially the face and underarms.
- If he is unconscious, place him on his side with his legs bent.