Weekend high temperatures forecast; Health reminds all to keep an eye on symptoms of exhaustion and heat stroke

Friday 20th May 2022 – Mike Smith
Source: press release – Generalitat Valenciana

The Ministry of Universal Health and Public Health has forecast high temperatures through the Comunidad Valenciana for this weekend and has activated the information protocol to warn the population about potential risks. The indications are especially aimed at the most vulnerable groups: the elderly, those with chronic illnesses, those who work exposed to high temperatures, pregnant women, minors, as well as fragile groups from a socioeconomic point of view.

It is recommended to avoid going outside or doing intense physical exercise in the hottest hours of the day (between 12 noon and 4.00pm), protect yourself with sunscreen, look for cool and shaded places, wear loose, light and light-coloured clothing, and protect your head with a cap or hat. At home, it is advisable to close the blinds and lower the awnings on facades exposed to the sun, in addition to spending more time in the coolest areas.

In addition, when the car is stopped or parked on public roads, neither people nor pets should ever be left inside the vehicle because very high temperatures can be reached.

Finally, the population is urged to drink water frequently, even if they are not thirsty, avoid drinking alcohol and highly caffeinated beverages, and replace large and hot meals with cold dishes, fresh fruits and vegetables.

Major Health Risks of Extreme Temperatures

Faced with extreme temperatures, you should to pay attention, and try to prevent, sunburn, muscle cramps, heat exhaustion and heat stroke.

• To avoid burns, it is recommended to use high sun protection creams and spend little time in the sun.
  
• When experiencing muscle cramps due to excessive physical activity or excessive sweating, you should stop the activity and rest in a cool place. You should not participate in any intense physical activity of long duration and you should drink juices diluted in water or sports drinks. If the cramps last more than an hour, go to the local health centre.

• The main symptoms of heat exhaustion are headache, tiredness, weakness, dizziness, nausea, or fainting. To counteract it, you have to rest in a cool place, drink juices diluted in water or sports drinks and go to the local health centre if the symptoms last more than an hour.

• Heat stroke can be serious because the body is unable to regulate its temperature, which rises rapidly and can reach 40.6°C. The main symptoms are: hot, dry and red skin, rapid pulse, severe headache, confusion and loss of consciousness. In this situation, you should call the emergency room and, while waiting, cool the body, stay in a dark room, put cold water cloths on the person or give them a cold bath or shower.