Tips against the heat wave

The Ministry of Health reminds that the episode of high temperatures sweeping across Spain. since Sunday may aggravate health problems previous or cause sunstroke or heat stroke, so it recommends drinking plenty of water, be in the shade and avoid caffeinated beverages and alcohol, among other tips.

In a statement, the Ministry recalls that it is likely that between this Tuesday and Thursday will take place the peak period of this heat wave, a few days in which the human body has to make an effort to adapt to the heat wave. to maintain normal body temperature.

“Excessive heat can alter our vital functions when the body is unable to compensate for variations in body temperature and can cause problems such as sunstroke or heat stroke, or even aggravate existing previous pathologies”, warns the department headed by Carolina Darias.

In fact, according to the latest report of the Daily Mortality Monitoring System (MoMo), of the Carlos III Health Institute, from January 1, 2020 until last July 5, there have been 107,473 deaths more than expected, of which 7,377 are attributable to temperature.

To minimize health damage caused by excessive temperatures, from the Ministry of Health insists on a decalogue of general recommendations.:

• Drinking water and fluids frequently, even if you do not feel thirsty and regardless of physical activity.

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• Avoid caffeinated, alcoholic or highly sweetened beverages.as they may promote dehydration.

• Pay special attention to attention to infants and young childrenpregnant or nursing mothers, as well as elderly people or people with diseases that can be aggravated by heat, such as heart disease, kidney disease, diabetes, hypertension, obesity, cancer, pathologies that hinder mobility, dementia and other mental illnesses. Do not abuse drugs or alcohol.

• Stay as long as possible in cool, shaded or air-conditioned places, and cool off whenever needed.

• Reduce physical activity and avoid outdoor sports. in the middle of the day.

• Wear light, loose-fitting, breathable clothing.

• Never leave anyone in a parked and locked vehicle (especially minors, elderly or chronically ill persons).

• Consult your health care professional for symptoms lasting more than one hour that may be related to high temperatures.

• Keep your medicines in a cool placeheat may alter their composition and effects.

• Make light meals that help replenish salts lost through sweating, such as salads, fruits, vegetables, juices…