Expert talks about the impact of heat on the human body

Almost all chronic diseases are exacerbated in hot conditions, especially cardiovascular pathologies, diabetes and lung diseases, Oksana Drapkina, chief specialist of the Russian Ministry of Health for therapy and general medical practice, told RIA Novosti.

She stressed that during periods of abnormal heat, it is necessary to pay special attention to your health and take general precautions: drink water regularly, wear clothes made of light natural fabrics, avoid exposure to the sun during peak hours, and take frequent breaks to rest in cool places. The expert noted that older people are most at risk of developing heat-related diseases, since with age the body's resistance to high temperatures decreases: the feeling of thirst occurs later, the sweating reaction slows down, and the number of sweat glands decreases.

Drapkina explained that the elderly also often have combined pathologies, cognitive and physical impairments, and the need to take multiple medications, so regular health monitoring, wearing appropriate clothing, staying cool, and drinking enough fluids are especially important for them. She added that many medications can directly affect sweating and thermoregulation, increasing the risk of heat illnesses, and recommended consulting a doctor about the possible impact of the medications taken on thermoregulation, with subsequent correction of the treatment regimen if necessary.

The Health Ministry expert particularly highlighted the danger of sunstroke and heatstroke as serious conditions with severe consequences. According to her, sunstroke occurs due to direct exposure to infrared radiation on the head without a hat, which leads to overheating of the brain and oxygen starvation, causing dizziness, severe headache, fever, sweating, vomiting, diarrhea and loss of consciousness in severe cases. Heatstroke develops as a result of general overheating of the body in conditions of high temperature and humidity (including closed rooms, saunas, transport) due to prolonged exposure to heat, working near heat sources, wearing inappropriate clothing, insufficient fluid intake or physical activity in the heat.

To provide first aid in both conditions, Drapkina recommended immediately moving the victim to a cool place, laying him down with his head elevated, ensuring rest, removing excess clothing, opening access to air, applying cooling (rubbing, compresses) and giving cool water. If the condition worsens at any time, it is necessary to immediately call an ambulance.

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