2023-07-17 10:26:10
MARGHERITA DE BAC
Corriere della Sera
Updated Monday, July 17, 2023 – 10:26
In these torrid days it is necessary to know how we have to act to minimize the impact of heat on our body
A man walks with his bicycle and a drink along the Barcelona promenade. heat activates warnings in half of Spain with Córdoba and Jan in red due to maximums of 44 degrees
Spain lives a new hello of heat and it will not be the last of this summer. In addition, they will become more common due to climate change, which makes summers hotter.
It is therefore very important that we know what we should do and what we should not do in the face of extreme heat and how we can combat the most suffocating days of summer.
Why is extreme heat a health risk factor?
Heat has a vasodilating effect on the arteries and lowers blood pressure. This mechanism can cause fainting and loss of consciousnessespecially in the elderly and cardiac patients.
It also raises body temperature, which adds to the action of the sun’s rays. The risk of dehydratin it is also greater since liquids are eliminated through sweat, even when standing still. Not drinking enough water means it can cause health problems.
What should we and what should we not do?
The most common mistake when it’s hot is to take off as many clothes as possible. However, in case of high temperatures, it must be covered to limit the percentage of body areas exposed to the sun. The radiation acts directly on the body and it overheats it if it does not find barriers.
Light clothing is recommended, made of natural fabrics such as cotton and linen, preferably loose and comfortable so that air can circulate. No to ‘skinny’ pants and tight shirts. Also, light colors are preferable because they do not attract lightning.
What about food?
Skipping meals can cause us problems. It is necessary to respect the times in which we eat even if we do not feel hungry. Better focus on light mealswithout many sauces, with fruits and vegetables.
With the heat, calories are more easily lost along with mineral salts. Therefore, the organism must be adequately cooled so as not to deprive it of energy. You have to moderate the amounts, one and a half or two liters per person, but keep in mind that each individual has a different fluid requirement depending on age and movement.
How to prevent dehydration?
Hot flashes, a feeling of severe weakness, headaches, or chapped lips and skin are some of the warning signs of dehydration.
We have to be attentive and if we notice any, we have to drinking water and try to rest in a shady spot, not under the flow of air conditioning which, if used incorrectly, can pose a risk.
And at night?
Resting well means being prepared to endure the efforts throughout the day, and more when there is a hello of heat. In the bedroom, the air conditioning should be kept at 25-27 degrees, taking care not to receive the flow directly.
It is better not to eat heavy foods before going to sleep, and it is also good to plan dinner two hours before bedtime. Lack of sleep weakens and while we are awake we continue consuming energythat we need to face the hours of the day.
Is the mountain a safer environment?
Not at all, you have to take the same precautions. Remember that at high altitude we are much more exposed to the sun’s rays.
Not to long walks in case of high temperature, high humidity or lack of ventilation. Drink regularly every 30, 60 minutes and if you go on an excursion, better very early or in the morning.
According to the criteria of The Trust Project
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