ILOILO City – The City Health Office (CHO) gave several tips on how to avoid heat exhaustion and stroke as the heat index is rising amid the ongoing dry season.
Dr. Roland Jay Fortuna, CHO medical officer IV, explained that heat exhaustion can be experienced when the temperature is so high and one is having headache and vomiting. If it gets worse, this could lead to heat stroke which is considered a medical emergency.
But, he said, this can be avoided by practicing some important measures.
He emphasized it is important to bring water and stay hydrated all the time, especially those planning to go outside or travel during Holy Week.
Before and after travelling, Fortuna said, it is equally right to rest your body.
Also, it is important to bring hand fan, cap or umbrella and as much as possible take shelter in shady areas like under the trees or air-conditioned areas.
Wearing light-colored clothes can also help.
It is also important take a bath to freshen your body and avoid alcohol beverage and spicy food, too, as this worsen dehydration.
Lastly, it is important to enjoy by eating healthy food especially fruits that are good sources of fluid.
According to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration – Iloilo, the highest temperature or heat index recorded in the city in March was as high as 41 degrees Celsius./PN
