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How Prolonged Heat Harms Your Health

Health Risks of Prolonged Heat Exposure

Prolonged heat harms your health by pushing your body beyond its ability to regulate temperature. Common symptoms include swelling, heat rash, cramps, fainting, heat exhaustion, and in extreme cases, heatstroke—which can be fatal.

Doctors warn that people exposed to excessive heat may experience dehydration, fatigue, or even collapse. Children, the elderly, and those with chronic illnesses are especially vulnerable.

Why the Body Struggles in Hot Weather

The ideal temperature for the human body ranges between 20°C and 30°C. Exceeding this range can overload the brain’s thermoregulation center, resulting in dangerous conditions. Those most at risk:

  • Children under 4

  • Seniors over 70

  • People with chronic diseases

6 Common Health Issues Caused by Heat

1. Heat Swelling

Feet and ankles may swell due to expanded blood vessels. Raise legs while resting to help circulation. Avoid diuretics—they worsen dehydration.

2. Heat Rash

Red, itchy spots on sun-exposed skin. Usually self-resolving. Use antihistamines for severe itching. Avoid further sun exposure.

3. Heat Cramps

Caused by heavy exercise in hot conditions. Painful muscle spasms from salt and water loss. Rest, drink electrolyte fluids.

4. Fainting

Heat-induced low blood pressure can reduce blood flow to the brain. Lay the person down, elevate legs, provide fluids.

5. Heat Exhaustion

More serious than fainting. Symptoms include headache, dizziness, nausea. Rest in a cool place, hydrate, apply cold compresses.

6. Heatstroke

Life-threatening. Core temperature may exceed 40°C. Symptoms: confusion, seizures, unconsciousness. Cool the body and call emergency services immediately.

Heat Safety Tips

  • Avoid going outdoors from 10am to 4pm

  • Stay hydrated with water and electrolyte drinks

  • Wear breathable clothing and wide-brim hats

  • Use sunscreen and sunglasses

 
Akita Mamoru
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