In yet another summer of high temperatures, it is important to take care of your health to face the heat and the incidence of ultraviolet radiation, which is higher during this period. In 2024, the average temperature of the Earth was 1.6°C warmer compared to the years between 1850 and 1900.
The tendency is for episodes of extreme heat to repeat themselves more frequently, so it is important to be aware of the impacts on health. To talk about the subject, H2FOZ interviewed emergency physician Cristina Cardoso Kunzler, specialist in Clinical Medicine, at Hospital Itamed.
In this interview, she highlights the effects of heat on health and the precautions that everyone should take.
H2FOZ – What are the main effects of heat on the body?
Dr. Cristina – Faced with intense heat, the body develops adaptation mechanisms to deal with thermal stress, increasing the production of sweat, which dissipates heat through the loss of fluids, increasing the dilation of blood vessels, which directs blood to the surface of the skin, releasing heat more easily.
Excessive heat can affect the body's thermoregulation system, leading to symptoms caused by the rapid loss of body fluids, such as dizziness, fatigue, tiredness, dry mouth, decreased ability to concentrate, feeling intense thirst and, in more severe cases, fainting.
H2FOZ – What are the possible diseases caused by heat?
Dr. Cristina – Excessive heat can be harmful mainly to two groups: the elderly and children.
As we age, our ability to regulate our body temperature declines, making older adults more vulnerable to heatstroke. As mobility is often impaired, older adults may have difficulty accessing water.
Children have difficulty regulating their body temperature due to a less effective sweating system. They are also less likely to recognize the need to hydrate.
The most common illnesses caused by heat are dehydration and heatstroke. It is essential to stay hydrated during periods of intense heat, as dehydration, in more severe cases, can lead to kidney complications, such as acute renal failure. Therefore, it is essential to stay hydrated and avoid excessive consumption of alcoholic beverages.
H2FOZ – What are the characteristics of heat stroke?
Dr. Cristina – Heatstroke is a medical emergency that requires immediate treatment and occurs when the body can no longer cool itself through sweat. This is caused by prolonged exposure to the sun. Symptoms include high fever, irritability, rapid pulse and rapid breathing, dizziness, malaise, confusion, flushed skin, and fainting. To prevent heatstroke, avoid prolonged exposure to the sun, drink plenty of water, and avoid strenuous activity in very hot weather.
Sunburn can damage your skin and increase your risk of skin cancer. Use sunscreen and avoid excessive sun exposure.
H2FOZ – What precautions should we take to avoid heat-related illnesses?
Dr. Cristina – To prevent heat illness, it is crucial to take steps to cool down, such as seeking shade and cool places, drinking water regularly, avoiding places that are too exposed to the sun or too hot, and avoiding strenuous activities.
Drink water regularly; avoid drinks with high sugar and caffeine content, as they can increase fluid loss; opt for light, light-colored clothing that reflects sunlight during the hottest times of the day; avoid strenuous physical activities; seek shade whenever possible, especially during the hottest times of the day, avoiding direct exposure to the sun; and use sunscreen.
H2FOZ – Has there been an increase in the number of people being treated due to heat-related illnesses in recent days, when the temperature was extreme?
Dr. Cristina – Yes, in recent days we have seen an increase in the demand for medical assistance for cases related to dehydration, in particular.
