ANTIQUE – As the heat index rises, the Provincial Health Office (PHO) warns Antiqueños of heat illnesses.
The Antique PHO headed by Dr. Ric Noel Naciongayo released an advisory on how to avoid heat stroke, which occurs when the body overheats and cannot cool down. The body cannot take off excessive heat by sweating because of dehydration and/or a humid environment.
What are the causes of heat stroke?
According to the Antique PHO, among the causes of a heat stroke are: hot and humid weather, vigorous exercise in hot weather, dehydration, and too much direct exposure to the sun.
Infants, the elderly, athletes, and individuals who work outside are at higher risk to heat illnesses.
The signs of heat exhaustion to be mindful of, according to the Antique PHO, are warm, flushed skin, faintness, dizziness, weakness, headache, very high fever of 41° Celcius; rapid heartbeat, convulsions and unconsciousness.
These are the emergency measures when there is a case of heat stroke:
* Move the person to a shady spot or indoors and have him/her lie down with legs elevated.
* If able to drink liquids, have him/her sip cool water in a sitting position.
* Remove clothing, apply cool water to the skin, and fan the person.
* Apply ice packs to the armpits, wrists, ankles, and groin.
Antiqueños should also remember that heat stroke is a medical emergency and the patient should be taken to the nearest hospital after emergency measures have been instituted.
How to avoid heat stroke
To avoid heat stroke, the Antique PHO advised of the following during hot and humid weather:
* Limit the amount of time you spend outdoors.
* Drink plenty of water.
* Avoid tea, coffee, soda, and alcohol. Wear a wide-brimmed hat and long-sleeved clothing when outdoors.
* Schedule heavy-duty activities for the beginning or end of the day when it’s cooler.
* Put on comfortable and loose clothes./PN
