Especialista alerta para cuidados na saúde durante onda de calor | LIVE CNN

Summary

In this interview, Dr. Sérgio Timer, a cardiologist, explains the serious health risks associated with excessive heat, including heat exhaustion and heatstroke. He emphasizes that vulnerable groups, such as the elderly and people with heart or kidney problems, are particularly at risk. Dr. Timer provides practical advice on staying safe during heat waves, such as staying hydrated, avoiding extreme heat during the hottest part of the day, and recognizing early symptoms of heat-related illnesses. He also discusses the added dangers of high nighttime temperatures, which disrupt the body’s natural cooling mechanisms, increasing health risks.

Takeaways

• 😀 Excessive heat can cause serious health issues, including heat exhaustion and heatstroke.
• 😀 People with pre-existing conditions, such as heart disease, high blood pressure, or kidney problems, are more vulnerable to heat-related illnesses.
• 😀 Heat exhaustion symptoms include dizziness, nausea, increased thirst, and fatigue.
• 😀 Heatstroke, a more severe condition, can cause tachycardia, shortness of breath, and loss of consciousness, requiring immediate medical attention.
• 😀 Staying hydrated is essential to prevent heat-related illnesses, especially during extreme heat.
• 😀 It's important to avoid physical activity during the hottest part of the day, particularly between noon and 4 pm.
• 😀 Seeking cooler environments, such as air-conditioned spaces, can help protect against the dangers of heat.
• 😀 Heatwaves can result in high nighttime temperatures, preventing the body from cooling down properly during sleep.
• 😀 During extreme heat, the body's normal thermoregulation process may be overwhelmed, increasing the risk of heat-related health problems.
• 😀 The cardiologist highlighted a significant rise in deaths during heatwaves, with over 14,000 excess deaths reported in Europe recently.
• 😀 It's crucial to act quickly in the event of heatstroke symptoms by seeking help or emergency care as soon as possible.

Q & A

What health risks are associated with extreme heat?

Extreme heat can lead to heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Heat exhaustion causes symptoms like excessive tiredness, thirst, nausea, and dizziness, while heat stroke, which is more severe, can result in rapid heart rate, difficulty breathing, and loss of consciousness, requiring immediate medical attention.

Which populations are most vulnerable to heat-related illnesses?

People with pre-existing health conditions such as high blood pressure, heart problems, and kidney issues are more vulnerable to the effects of extreme heat. Additionally, elderly individuals and young children are also at greater risk.

What is the difference between heat exhaustion and heat stroke?

Heat exhaustion involves symptoms like fatigue, dizziness, nausea, and excessive thirst, while heat stroke is more severe and may include symptoms like rapid heart rate, difficulty breathing, or fainting. Heat stroke requires immediate medical intervention.

What are some preventive measures to protect oneself from extreme heat?

To protect yourself from extreme heat, it is important to stay hydrated, avoid physical activity during peak heat hours (typically midday), wear protective gear such as hats, and seek cooler environments like air-conditioned spaces whenever possible.

How can one manage heat exposure during physical activity?

It's essential to avoid exercising during the hottest times of the day (midday) and to stay well-hydrated. If exercise is necessary, it should be done in cooler areas or during early morning or evening hours when temperatures are lower.

What role does hydration play in managing heat exposure?

Hydration is critical during heat exposure. Being dehydrated can worsen symptoms of heat exhaustion, and once you feel thirsty, you are already in the early stages of dehydration. Consistently drinking water throughout the day helps prevent heat-related illnesses.

Why are nighttime temperatures important in heatwaves?

Nighttime temperatures are crucial because the body relies on cooler nighttime temperatures to regulate its internal heat. When the minimum temperature during the night is high, such as in the case of heatwaves, the body doesn't get the necessary cooling period, increasing the risk of heat stress.

What were the effects of the recent heatwave in Europe?

The recent heatwave in Europe resulted in around 14,000 additional deaths compared to what was expected for that period. The heat was especially intense at night, with minimum temperatures remaining high, preventing the body from cooling down during sleep.

What are the early signs that someone is experiencing heat exhaustion?

Early signs of heat exhaustion include fatigue, excessive thirst, dizziness, nausea, and general discomfort. These symptoms indicate the body is struggling to cope with the heat and should be addressed by moving to a cooler environment and hydrating.

What should someone do if they experience severe symptoms like a fast heart rate or loss of consciousness due to heat?

If someone experiences severe symptoms such as a rapid heart rate, difficulty breathing, or loss of consciousness, it is important to seek emergency medical help immediately. In the meantime, try to cool them down by moving them to a shaded area and offering water if they are conscious.