| Floods, storms and other natural events
kill thousands of people every year. So does extreme heat. Experts say heat may
be nature's deadliest killer. For example, extreme heat was blamed for killing
more than one hundred people in India and Pakistan in two thousand seven.
Daytime temperatures rose to more than forty-five degrees Celsius in some areas.
On June eleventh, the temperature in one desert town hit fifty-one
degrees. Experts say the total heat of a hot day or several days can affect health. Several hot days are considered a heat wave. Experts say heat waves often become dangerous when the nighttime temperature does not drop much from the highest daytime temperature. This causes great stress on the human body. Doctors say people can do many things to protect themselves from the dangers of extreme heat. Stay out of the sun, if possible. Drink lots of cool water. Wear light colored clothing made of natural materials. Make sure the clothing is loose, permitting freedom of movement. And learn the danger signs of the medical problems that are linked to heat. The most common health problem linked to hot weather is heat stress. Usually, it is also the least severe. The causes of heat stress include wearing heavy clothing, physical work or exercise, hot weather or high humidity. Humidity is the amount of water in the air. If several of these conditions are present at the same time, a person's body temperature may rise above safe limits. The person loses large amounts of body water and salt in perspiration. Perspiration is one of the body's defenses against heat. It is how the body releases water to cool the skin. Most people suffer only muscle pain as a result of heat stress. The pain is a warning that the body is becoming too hot. Doctors say those suffering muscle pain should stop all activity and rest in a cool place. They should also drink cool liquids. Do not return to physical activity for a few hours because more serious conditions could develop. So experts advise drinking more water in hot weather. Doctors say actions other than drinking water can protect against the death dangers of heat. Stay out of the sun, if possible. Wear loose, light-weight and light colored clothes. Wear a hat or other head covering when in the sun. Eat fewer hot and heavy foods. If possible, cook foods during cooler times of the day. Also, rest more often. Physical activity produces body heat. Experts say these simple steps can prevent the dangerous health problems linked to heat. They will prevent sickness, help you feel better and may one day even save your life. |