Experts explain how to survive the heat and high humidity
Almost every summer now sets new temperature records. And such climatic realities, combined with extremely high humidity, pose a certain danger to human health.
The PBSO News Hour published an article on how to survive the heat wave. In particular, journalists asked several important questions to Heidi Brown, an associate professor of public health at the University of Arizona. Here is what the scientist said.
"The situation is not going to improve in the near future, and it is better to be prepared for it."
According to her, heat stroke and its consequences fall under the category of heat-related illnesses. Quite often, this condition requires emergency medical care. According to the US National Weather Service, extreme heat is the leading cause of climate-related deaths.
Anyone can suffer, Brown said, and the most at-risk are socially vulnerable citizens: the elderly, homeless, prisoners, and people working outdoors.
How to survive in hot and humid weather?
Heidi believes it is extremely important not to take the heat lightly. Such weather is insidious. According to the scientist, the early signs of heat stroke resemble a general malaise and often do not cause people to worry.
Here's what the expert recommends in this case:
- Actively "hydrate". Don't wait until you are thirsty and drink water throughout the day. In this case, it is wise to pay attention to the color of the urine. With normal water balance, it will be pale yellow, and with poor water balance, it will be dark.
- Avoid direct sunlight. Stay indoors or in the shade.
- Replenish the reserves of sodium in the body, which is "washed out" with heavy sweating. To replenish it, you can drink special drinks for athletes, such as Gatorade, or chew something salty.
- Talk to your family and neighbors as often as possible. Someone may need your help.
- If you feel unwell, seek medical attention immediately.
Experts say that when it comes to extreme heat, it is better to be safe than sorry. According to Brown, underestimating your body's reaction can be fatal, so seeing a doctor is always a good idea, even if the alarm turns out to be false.
